Manchester United are unlikely to make a move for Alejandro Balde after talks with Barcelona left both clubs too far apart on the possible terms of a deal.
Manchester United have been looking for another left-back ahead of the transfer deadline, with Luke Shaw still the only senior option in the position. Shaw managed every Premier League game last season, but with Champions League football returning, United need another option.
Alejandro Balde had emerged as one possibility after Joao Cancelo’s arrival and Xavi Espart’s emergence at Barcelona appeared to leave his place less secure.
Alejandro Balde deal proves too difficult for United
Fabrizio Romano has reported that further discussions took place on Sunday involving Manchester United, Barcelona and Balde’s agent Jorge Mendes.
Those talks failed to produce a breakthrough.
United reportedly see Barcelona’s demands as too high and would prefer to take Alejandro Balde on loan with an option to buy. Barcelona, however, are said to want a permanent transfer.
There is another problem for United. Balde himself has reportedly made it clear that he does not want to leave Barcelona this summer.
That combination has effectively ended United’s pursuit, with Romano reporting that the club are now prepared to look elsewhere.
Luke Shaw’s workload is likely to become even heavier once European football begins, if the club are unable to complete a deal before the deadline. Jorge Salinas and Lewis Hall have been mentioned, but no agreement has been reached yet.
Jorge Salinas has the same agent as Alejandro Balde and Manchester United reportedly agreed personal terms with him, but there is no agreement between United and Racing Santander yet.
United now have to decide which target is worth pursuing before the deadline arrives.
