Barcelona sets €45M price tag on Balde; Man Utd prefers loan

Hupu, August 25th — According to talkSPORT chief reporter Alex Crook, Manchester United target Alejandro Balde has been priced at €45 million by Barcelona. However, the Red Devils prefer to bring in the left-back on loan.

With just one week left before the Premier League transfer window closes, clubs must complete their summer transfer operations by 11 PM on Tuesday, September 1st.

Manchester United's Left-Back Search

Manchester United are still searching for a left-back in the transfer market to provide competition for Luke Shaw. talkSPORT revealed last week that Balde and RB Leipzig's David Raum have been identified as targets for the position. Carrick's side have activated backup plans after primary target Lewis Hall appears set to stay at Newcastle.

Barcelona's Asking Price as Potential Obstacle

However, Barcelona's €45 million asking price for Balde could be an obstacle for Manchester United. As the Red Devils prefer to loan the 22-year-old, Old Trafford has downplayed the likelihood of completing a deal.

Balde missed Barcelona's La Liga opener — Flick's side began their title defense with a 5-0 away win over Elche on Sunday, but Balde was not included in the matchday squad, with another La Masia graduate, Xavi Espart, starting at left-back. Since making his league debut at age 17 in 2021, Balde has won three La Liga titles with Barcelona.

Expert Opinion

European football journalist Andy Brassell believes the player, who has seven caps for Spain, will succeed in the Premier League. Brassell exclusively told talkSPORT:

"I think he would be excellent for Manchester United. The possibility of this transfer exists because Flick talked about it after the Elche match. He explained that he left Balde out because he felt his mindset wasn't in the right place. It's a bit of a shame from Barcelona's perspective, as he's an academy product who has contributed greatly to the team."

"He is very composed on the ball. Clearly, when they look for a left-back like Lewis Hall, that's exactly what they want — someone composed on the ball, good at retaining possession, and mobile. Rarely losing the ball in that position is a huge advantage. At the same time, he is solid defensively and commits few fouls. If you think back to Manchester United's glory days, he would be an excellent left-back for that great United team. In my opinion, he is that good, and don't forget he is only 22."

Source: talkSPORT

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