Balde must : Hansi Flick sends clear message on United targets future

Manchester United’s pursuit of Alejandro Balde may have ended in a whimper this summer, but the club remain hot on his heels ahead of the winter transfer window. The Red Devils are looking for a new left-back to provide cover for, and eventually succeed, Luke Shaw at Old Trafford.

The English full-back started every game in the Premier League last season, but has entered the final year of his contract. The 31 year old retained his place in the starting XI in the first three games of this season, but has missed the last three with an issue.

United tried to bolster the position this summer, but their failure to do so could now come back to haunt them. In Shaw’s absence, Michael Carrick has deployed Patrick Dorgu and Noussair Mazraoui in the position to mixed effect.

The Red Devils also have the relatively unproven Harry Amass in the squad, but he is yet to start this season. The English giants, as such, could be tempted to address the position once the transfer window reopens in January.

A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person suggests that the English giants could rekindle their interest in Balde at the turn of the year, especially following his struggles at Camp Nou.

Balde’s struggles at Barcelona

Balde was a first-team regular for Barcelona last season, but lost his place in the team over the summer. After watching from the sidelines as an unused substitute for the first five games of the season, the Spaniard was afforded his first minutes of the season on Wednesday, in the 7-2 win over Racing Santander.

Alejandro Balde Stats: 2026/27 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

Balde replaced Joao Cancelo in the 78th minute in midweek, in what was also the Portuguese’s first LaLiga start of the campaign. Both have fallen behind Xavi Espart, who has been outstanding in the left-back role this season.

The situation has added to speculation regarding Balde, who is still highly regarded in the European football circles. With United also looking for a left-back in 2027, they could jump at the opportunity to secure the 22 year old’s signature at the turn of the year.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has now provided an update on Balde’s situation.

Hansi pleased with Balde’s efforts in training

Speaking to the press, as cited by SPORT, Flick insisted that he is happy with Balde’s attitude in training. He said: “We have five full-backs, two on the right and three on the left. Nobody expected Xavi Espart to play at this level. Balde must give his best. He’s already doing that in training.”

The Spanish manager went on to acknowledge that the player will be frustrated by his lack of minutes this season, adding: “[He] isn’t happy, because he wants to play and isn’t getting any playing time. He’s been key over the last two years.”

“Things change. There’s a different dynamic; we have to manage it. He’s handling it well; I’m pleased with him. It’s not an easy situation; it’s a battle for a place in the team.”

SPORT also confirmed interest in Balde’s signature from United, Liverpool and Inter Milan, and suggested that the player could assess his future in the winter transfer window. The report stated that the Spaniard has a €40 million market value and Barcelona are unlikely to let him leave for a reduced fee.

Final Thoughts

United also remain hot on the heels of Lewis Hall ahead of 2027. If the Red Devils manage to sign one of Hall or Balde next year, their left-back issues could be solved for years to come.

Featured image by David Ramos/Getty Images