- Man Utd eyeing Alejandro Balde
- Barcelona no longer view him as indespensible
- Marcus Rashford could hold key to transfer
Manchester United have reportedly made enquiries about signing Barcelona star Alejandro Balde. One area of focus for the transfer chiefs is to add competition at left-back for Luke Shaw.
According to TEAMtalk, United learned that Balde might be available this summer and enquired. Barca are open to offers due to a planned squad change and their financial situation.
Balde has been with the Catalans his entire career, emerging from their esteemed La Masia youth academy. This season he made 42 appearances across competitions, posting three assists.
Man Utd eye Balde
United continue to monitor Balde’s situation. The club’s decision-makers rate him highly.
A new left-back is on the to-do list. The 22-year-old isn’t the only name on INEOS’ shortlist.
Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall is of interest and reports suggest the Reds could swoop if he pushes for an exit. But signing the Magpies star could cost around £70m (€80m).
Reports in Spain claim that Balde could cost around €50m (£40m) and that he’s no longer untouchable at Camp Nou. He has just over two years left on his contract, which makes this summer the opportune time for his club to cash in.
Swap deal?
United’s interest in Balde is intriguing given the current situation they find themselves in with Barca. The two clubs are at a standstill over negotiations for Marcus Rashford’s permanent switch to Camp Nou.
Rashford spent the season on loan with the Blaugrana and impressed. The issue is that the Spaniards aren’t prepared to pay his €30m buy-out clause, which the Reds insist must be met.
The English forward could be used in a potential deal for Balde, which would leave all parties satisfied. The young Spaniard has previously spoken of his admiration for United and could become a long-term Luke Shaw replacement.
