Manchester United’s interest in Alejandro Balde has reportedly reached a crucial stage, but negotiations remain complicated because the Red Devils are unwilling to meet Barcelona’s current asking price for the Spanish left-back.
With the transfer window rapidly approaching its final hours, United are still considering whether Balde could become another addition to Michael Carrick’s squad.
The Barcelona defender has emerged as an attractive option for the club as they look to strengthen the left side of their defence and provide additional competition in the position.
However, Barcelona are reportedly determined to secure a permanent transfer if Balde is allowed to leave Camp Nou.
The Catalan giants are believed to value the 22-year-old at approximately €30 million to €40 million, a figure Manchester United are currently reluctant to pay.
United would reportedly prefer a loan arrangement, potentially including an option to purchase Balde permanently at the end of the season.
Such a structure would give the English club greater flexibility while allowing them to assess how the defender adapts to the demands of the Premier League before committing to a significant transfer fee.
Barcelona, however, are said to have little interest in simply allowing Balde to leave temporarily without receiving a substantial financial return.
The club’s preference for a permanent sale has created a major difference between the two sides.
Balde’s representative, Jorge Mendes, is reportedly involved in efforts to find a solution that could satisfy everyone.
Mendes will have an important role to play as discussions continue, particularly with the transfer deadline getting closer and very little time remaining for the clubs to reach an agreement.
Another major factor is Balde himself. His preference reportedly remains uncertain, with suggestions that the defender could potentially be open to joining Manchester United while another possibility is that he could remain at Barcelona and continue fighting for his place in the squad.
That uncertainty means there is still no guarantee that a transfer will happen, even if United and Barcelona manage to find common ground over the financial details.
For Barcelona, a permanent sale could provide valuable funds for other areas of their squad. The club have reportedly been linked with defensive targets such as Castello Lukeba and Gonçalo Inácio, meaning money generated from Balde’s departure could potentially be redirected towards another defensive signing.
For Manchester United, meanwhile, Balde remains appealing because of his pace, athleticism and attacking ability.
The Spanish international can provide energy from the left-back position and could offer Carrick another tactical option when United need to attack from wide areas.But the clock is ticking.
United must decide whether to maintain their preference for a loan, negotiate a permanent deal or walk away from the transfer altogether.
Barcelona, on the other hand, must determine whether refusing to compromise is worth risking the possibility of keeping a player whose future at the club has already become a major talking point.
