Alejandro Balde is open to leaving Barcelona ahead of the transfer deadline, a new report claims. The development comes not long after Manchester United reportedly identified the Spaniard as a potential target.
Newcastle United's Lewis Hall was tracked by Manchester United, but the Magpies categorically denied any move as they had already lost several other key players. Luke Shaw definitely needs a backup as the season progresses, and it was said that Balde was identified as an alternative option if the Hall deal fails to materialise.
The 22-year-old Balde is a La Masia graduate and is contracted until 2028. As per the latest report, Balde has asked Jorge Mendes and Gestifute to find him a new club before the deadline arrives. Apart from United, Benfica were also linked to the left-footed star, whose current market value is said to be around €50 million.
Meanwhile, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick dropped Balde from the squad for the season opener. The gaffer's comments made the current situation clear as he said only players who are fully committed to the team's cause would be considered for selection.
"Balde has been omitted from Flick's first-team squad who will take on Elche away from home on Sunday evening in their La Liga opener, with the head coach citing how he only wants to utilise players who are 100 per cent committed to the club... As a result, United could land themselves a cut-price alternative to Hall in the coming days," the Manchester Evening News said in a report.
Balde had reportedly started 21 league games last season before being sidelined due to injury concerns. The arrival of João Cancelo, an experienced campaigner who can play on either side of the pitch, will further make life difficult for the youngster at Camp Nou.
Manchester United cannot confidently begin another campaign without another left-back in the squad. Luke Shaw's fitness has always been a concern, and their return to the European circuit is only going to make the season even more packed.
