Manchester United’s transfer operation appears to have developed a new obsession: once one problem is nearly solved, another immediately reports for duty. With the club closing in on Carlos Baleba, United are now looking for a new left-back, and Alejandro Balde has reportedly entered the conversation after contacts were made with the Barcelona defender’s camp.
United’s Left-Back Hunt Refuses to Take a Day Off
OGM News FC understands that Manchester United have held calls with Balde’s representatives in recent days to establish whether an exit from Barcelona could be possible and, naturally, how much financial damage such an adventure might cause. The move would represent another attempt to strengthen a position United have identified as a priority, with Lewis Hall also previously attracting serious attention.
The timing is particularly interesting because Manchester United’s pursuit of Baleba is close to completion. Reports indicate that United have offered around £65 million for the midfielder, while personal terms are understood to be agreed. In other words, the Red Devils may soon be preparing for another transfer conversation before the ink on the previous one has properly dried.
Balde Happy in Barcelona, United Happy to Ask Anyway
The biggest complication is Balde himself. The Barcelona left-back is reportedly happy at the Catalan club, while Barcelona’s official position has previously been to regard him as an important part of their squad. His current contract runs until June 2028 and includes a €1 billion release clause, making the idea of a straightforward bargain particularly entertaining.
That has not stopped United from making enquiries. In classic transfer-window fashion, the club appears to be asking the question first and worrying about the answer later. If Balde is genuinely content at Barcelona, United may discover that contacting his camp is considerably easier than convincing him to pack his bags for Manchester.
OGM News FC understands that the Balde development should be viewed as an exploratory move rather than evidence that a transfer is imminent. Manchester United still have other left-back possibilities, while Balde’s preference to remain at Barcelona could prove decisive. For now, the message is simple: United have finished looking at one priority and immediately opened another file. Supporters should watch this space closely, because the left-back saga may have only just begun.
