Manchester United have made contact with Barcelona over a potential move for left-back Alejandro Balde, but the two clubs remain divided over the structure of any deal.
United would prefer a season-long loan with an option to buy, while Barcelona are insisting on a permanent transfer worth between €30 million and €40 million.
The 22-year-old Spain international has given the green light for his agent, Jorge Mendes, to negotiate a move to Old Trafford. Barcelona are now actively considering a sale, with United having registered their formal interest.
United’s preference for a loan-to-buy arrangement mirrors the agreement the two clubs reached for Marcus Rashford last year. A season-long loan would allow United to assess Balde’s adaptation to English football before committing a portion of their budget to a permanent transfer.
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The player has already been left out of Barcelona’s squad for their La Liga season-opener, showing that the club are preparing for his potential departure. Balde is contracted until 2028 with a symbolic €1 billion release clause, but Barcelona are willing to negotiate a more realistic fee.
United have been exploring the left-back market throughout the summer. Their primary target had been Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall, but a deal for the England international has proven difficult to finalise. Balde has emerged as a more affordable alternative.
The club have been handed a boost with Barcelona now “open” to selling the defender, according to Fabrizio Romano. United sources have been playing down the chances of securing Balde, but Barcelona have been made aware of their interest.
With the transfer window closing in just over a week, both clubs will need to move quickly if a deal is to be struck. Balde has already instructed Mendes to find a solution before the market shuts. United must decide whether to meet Barcelona’s valuation or risk losing out on another target.
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