Manchester United’s need for another wingback has been well-documented with neither Diogo Dalot nor Noussair Mazraoui capable of fulfilling Ruben Amorim’s attacking demands.
Both stars are traditional full-backs and the difference since Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu came in has been clear for all to see. Which is why the Portuguese had coach wants INEOS to bring in another piece of the jigsaw in the summer.
The January signing has excelled on the left but he can also play on the right and the Red Devils could opt for another left-sided wingback.
As per reports in Spain (via F365), Alejandro Balde remains a target for United and they have even presented an initial offer of €50 million to the Catalan giants.
Balde key for Barca
Hansi Flick is delighted with the Spaniard’s impact this season and has categorically instructed Deco to reject the offer and that is what the La Liga giants have done.
The 21-year-old, termed ” the best in the world” in his position, has one goal and eight assists this season and his ability with the ball makes him the perfect fit for Amorim’s system.
He is in the 98 percentile for successful take-ons and in the 97 percentile for progressive carries (via fbref), which is exactly why Flick does not want to lose him under any circumstance.
“Balde is back at 100% and is an indispensable part of the Barcelona lineup. Defensively, he still has some shortcomings, but he’s a lethal weapon every time he joins the attack, thanks to his speed and depth.
“This has caught the attention of Manchester United , who are looking for a new owner for the left wing, despite signing Patrick Dorgu in January, and have their eyes on the La Masia pearl.
United submit offer
“And they didn’t hesitate to present an initial offer valued at 50 million euros, which Camp Nou instantly rejected, considering it insufficient.
“Flick is delighted with Balde, who has scored one goal and provided eight assists this season, and has made it very clear that he doesn’t want to lose him under any circumstances. So he’s untouchable for Barça.”
Whether United mount a sustained challenge for his signature remains to be seen but given Balde’s love for his boyhood club and his importance to the coach’s system, it is likely that the Spain international will remain at Camp Nou.
The 20-time English league champions will likely have to move on to other options with Jeremie Frimpong and Roger Fernandes among the options being eyed for the right side after the Geovany Quenda deal went sideways.
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
