Man Utd in luck as Barcelona starlet who previously ‘resisted’ move is now considering a change due to reduced game time
Alejandro Balde, who has ‘previously resisted’ a move away from Barcelona, could well be on the move in 2027.
According to reports in Spain, the full-back’s limited role under Hansi Flick may lead to him pursuing a new venture elsewhere in order to increase his game time.
Alejandro Balde: The state of play
So far this season, Balde has featured for just a measly 12 minutes across all competitions.
The 22-year-old, who is tied to Cap Nou until 2028, ranks behind the experienced Joao Cancelo and Xavi Espart, 19, in Hansi Flick’s estimations.
Last term, Balde was granted 42 appearances in total, 31 of which were from the off, so he’d have been crossing his fingers that he would be playing a prominent role throughout 2026/2027.
Yet, just a month into the season, his hope will be starting to fade – hence being tipped to depart.
Balde has admirers at Old Trafford
It’s well known that Manchester United will be in the market for a left-back next year, though whether that’ll be in January or the summer remains to be seen.
From fans’ perspective, bringing one in as soon as possible, so in the winter, will be influential in the side’s results as they navigate three competitions.
Michael Carrick is currently relying on Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu, both of whom have already sustained injury problems and missed fixtures in recent weeks.
Balde poses as a young but still proven option, albeit he has never tested himself outside of his native Spain.
Reports have also suggested that a name on United’s shortlist is Crystal Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell.
The 27-year-old is out of contract at Selhurst Park next June, and is garnering interest from the Red Devils, Liverpool and other sides in the division.