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Manchester United have been handed a major lift in their pursuit of a new full-back, with transfer target Alejandro Balde making a firm call on his future at Barcelona.

As per a report from SPORT, the 22-year-old left-back has now formally authorised his agent, Jorge Mendes, to hold talks over an exit from the Catalan side.

Although clubs in England, Portugal and Italy are all showing interest in the Spain international, it is understood that Manchester United is the move that appeals most strongly to the player.

Mendes has already made Balde aware of Old Trafford's interest, and the defender is open to a possible switch to the Premier League.

Barcelona are said to want a fee in the region of €40m to €50m if they are to approve the transfer before the window shuts.

Talk over Balde's possible departure gathered pace after manager Hansi Flick left the left-back out of Barcelona's matchday squad for their La Liga opener against Elche.

Flick spoke about his squad selection by stressing that he wants to depend only on players who are 100% committed to the club.

Balde's omission from the side appears to be a clear sign that the Blaugrana are working to move him on as they aim to trim the squad and raise much-needed funds.

Manchester United's decision-makers have made the signing of an energetic left-back a priority as they try to solve long-running depth and fitness concerns alongside Luke Shaw. Newcastle United's Lewis Hall continues to be a leading name on United's shortlist.

But with Newcastle unwilling to sell and placing a huge valuation of more than £68m-£70m on Hall, United have shifted their focus towards Balde as a top-class and more affordable alternative.

With United also pushing ahead to complete their midfield rebuild, bringing in Balde would hand Erik ten Hag's team an elite, high-ceiling option to strengthen the backline.