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23 August 2026

Manchester United are stepping up their efforts to sign Alejandro Balde from Barcelona as their search for a new left-back gathers pace.

While Hull City left-back Ryan Giles caused repeated problems for United’s defence with a series of dangerous crosses, Luke Shaw offered very little going forward in the 2-0 away defeat.

Left-back was by no means United’s only issue against Hull, but it remains one position that should be treated as a priority between now and the close of the transfer window.

Earlier this week, a report from Fabrizio Romano stated that Manchester United are interested in Alejandro Balde.

It is also understood that Hansi Flick has authorised Balde to complete a move away from Camp Nou. The Barcelona boss has even left the 22-year-old out of his matchday squad for the game against Elche.

Balde emerged from La Masia and is regarded highly at Barcelona. However, ongoing injury problems have seen him slip down the pecking order, leaving his future at his boyhood club unclear.

According to MARCA, Jorge Mendes arrived in Barcelona this week carrying several offers for Balde and Marc Casado. He is said to have met the club’s sporting director as well as the players to outline the options available to them.

The report claims that Balde currently has three offers on the table.

One of those reported proposals has come from United, who are believed to be leading the chase for the Spaniard.

However, two other clubs are also competing for his signature, and Balde’s final decision is expected to shape how the remaining negotiations unfold.

In terms of his playing profile, Balde has the attributes to represent a significant upgrade on United’s current full-back choices in the final third, thanks to his explosive speed and dribbling quality.

His natural instinct to surge forward could also benefit players such as Marcus Rashford and Matheus Cunha by helping to stretch the pitch.