Barcelona Ready to Loan Alejandro Balde to Manchester United
- Barcelona have cleared defender Alejandro Balde to depart on loan when the January transfer window opens, drawing preliminary interest from Manchester United and Liverpool.
- The 22-year-old is enduring a difficult campaign at the Nou Camp under manager Hansi Flick.
- Balde, who turns 23 later in October, has slipped down the defensive pecking order.
Barcelona have cleared defender Alejandro Balde to depart on loan when the January transfer window opens, drawing preliminary interest from Manchester United and Liverpool.
Flick’s Squad Squeeze Leaves Balde on the Margins
The 22-year-old is enduring a difficult campaign at the Nou Camp under manager Hansi Flick. He has managed just one first-time appearance this season and missed out on a place in Spain’s World Cup squad.
Balde, who turns 23 later in October, has slipped down the defensive pecking order. Xavi Espart, Joao Cancelo, and Gerard Martin now sit ahead of him in the rotation.
Barcelona Consider Left-Back Options as Contract Talks Stall
His representatives are actively working on options away from Catalunya. His contract currently runs until 2028 with no ongoing discussions over a new deal.
Barcelona are also considering bringing in another left-back in 2027. That move would further complicate the defender’s prospects of breaking back into Flick’s plans.
Manchester United and Liverpool Weigh Up Moves
Manchester United’s recruitment team previously considered Balde during the summer transfer window. At the time, they ultimately prioritized moves for Nathaniel Brown and Lewis Hall.
With both of those previous deals now off the table, United continue to assess the left-back market. They view Balde as a player with a high ceiling who could develop significantly if he rediscovers his best form.
United’s football department is considering the opportunity of an initial loan to assess the defender in English football without immediately committing to a permanent transfer. Meanwhile, Liverpool have also been offered the opportunity to sign Balde as intermediaries sound out potential destinations for the Spanish defender.
Premier League Suitors Circle Ahead of January
A number of other Premier League clubs have also been approached regarding a possible deal. Balde’s representatives are gauging market interest ahead of the January window, with Sunderland, Everton, and Fulham all spoken to by intermediaries.
The player is open to the prospect of moving to England to revive his season and secure regular first-team football. While a loan move is currently being considered by all parties, the precise structure of any potential agreement remains unclear as January approaches.
For Barcelona, allowing Balde to leave on an initial loan provides an opportunity to reshape defensive options amid intense competition for starting roles.