Manchester United are keeping tabs on Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde, who has shown interest in a transfer to Old Trafford.
Mundo Deportivo, as reported by Sport Witness, claims that Manchester United is considering making a surprise move to sign Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde. The rookie has been impressive, and many believe he will eventually replace Jordi Alba.
Balde is a product of Barcelona’s renowned La Masia youth program and has made the most of the opportunity that Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has given him this season.
The left side of Barcelona’s defence has been spooked by the 19-year-old’s tricks and he shows no signs of tiring. The kid is signed up till 2024. Barcelona, though, is eager to sign him to a long-term contract since his popularity is rising rapidly.
The Blaugrana have begun negotiations for a new contract. However, given their present financial situation, the offer cannot go against La Liga regulations. The Barcelona prodigy’s breakthrough season has made him a star on the team, and now his boss agrees.
Recently, though, the defender declared his admiration for Manchester United and expressed a wish to play for them if he ever decides to leave Barcelona. It’s likely that the Red Devils have heard about this. However, it does not seem that left-back acquisition is high on Erik ten Hag’s priority list.
As a backup to Luke Shaw, the Dutch coach has already signed Tyrell Malacia. Meanwhile, Brandon Williams is capable of providing valuable assistance when called upon. The current agreement with Shaw will be up for renewal in the summer of 2023. However, Manchester United has the option to extend the player’s contract by a year. His recent play suggests he has at least one more season left in him at Old Trafford.
Shaw is an intriguing new name on Barcelona’s radar. At the same time, Balde can play right back if necessary. But ten Hag wants a more seasoned right-back, and the Spanish international lacks that knowledge. His rapid impact also won him a berth in Spain’s World Cup team. However, La Roja’s penalty shootout loss to Morocco in the Round of 16 ended their unbeaten run.
The promising young player from Barcelona and the club may soon reach an agreement on a new five-year contract. To prevent his departure in the future, a fresh, massive release clause should be included. So a transfer to Manchester United looks improbable.
