Manchester United are reportedly increasing their efforts to explore a potential move for Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde as Michael Carrick continues looking for ways to strengthen the left side of his squad.
The Red Devils are believed to have made enquiries regarding Balde’s current situation at Barcelona, while reports also suggest that the club has established contact with the defender’s representative, Jorge Mendes.
United are reportedly attempting to understand whether there is any realistic possibility of negotiating a deal before the summer transfer window closes.
Balde has increasingly become an attractive option for Manchester United as the club searches for another high-quality left-back capable of providing competition and a different tactical profile.
United already have Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu available in that position, but Balde would offer qualities that could significantly change the way the team attacks from the left.
The Spanish international is known for his exceptional pace, aggressive attacking instincts and confidence when progressing with the ball.
His ability to receive possession deep inside his own half before carrying it forward at speed makes him particularly dangerous in transition.
One of Balde’s biggest strengths is his ability to combine defensive recovery with attacking movement. He can push forward to support attacks but also has the speed required to recover his position when possession is lost.
That combination is becoming increasingly important in modern football, where full-backs are often expected to contribute almost as much in attack as they do defensively.
For Manchester United, those qualities could be extremely valuable.
Imagine Balde operating from the left side with an attacker such as Marcus Rashford or Matheus Cunha positioned ahead of him.
The combination of pace, direct running and overlapping movement could create serious problems for opposing defenders.
Balde could provide width from deep positions while allowing the forward ahead of him to move into more dangerous central areas.
The potential move could also create greater competition within United’s squad. Shaw has considerable experience, while Dorgu remains a young player with plenty of potential.
Bringing in someone like Balde would give Carrick another established option and allow him to select his preferred left-back depending on the opponent and tactical requirements.
Barcelona’s situation could also influence the possibility of a transfer. Balde’s position at the Catalan club is reportedly facing increased competition, with João Cancelo back in contention and Gerard Martín also capable of operating at left-back.
That situation has contributed to speculation that Balde’s long-term future at Barcelona could become a subject of discussion.
United’s interest in the defender is not completely new. The club has previously been linked with Balde, but the latest reported communication with his representatives could indicate that their interest has become more serious as the transfer deadline approaches.
However, there is still a significant amount of uncertainty surrounding any potential deal. Barcelona would have to be willing to negotiate, while Balde himself would need to consider whether leaving Camp Nou for Manchester would be the right step at this stage of his career.
Manchester United are therefore continuing to assess the situation rather than having a guaranteed agreement in place.
If the Red Devils could successfully complete the signing, Balde could become an important addition to Carrick’s tactical plans.
His speed and attacking ability would give United another outlet from the left, while his arrival would also increase competition for Shaw and Dorgu.
For now, supporters will have to wait and see whether United’s reported interest develops into a formal proposal. But with the transfer window approaching its final stages, Alejandro Balde is certainly a name worth watching closely around Old Trafford.
