Barcelona academy graduate wants to stay at club amid Manchester United interest | OneFootball

Earlier in the week, reports emerged claiming that FC Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde had emerged as a target for Manchester United.

The La Masia graduate has had an up-and-down season so far, with his form varying between good and bad, especially on the defensive side of things.

But he remains an integral part of manager Hansi Flick’s setup at the Catalan club.

Balde wants to stay

Now, according to journalist Ben Jacobs on The United Stand, Balde’s name has indeed come up in discussions at Manchester United, with director Christopher Vivell putting forth the Spaniard as an option.

However, it is unlikely to lead to anything meaningful as the 22-year-old left-back only wants to stay at Barcelona.

Not going anywhere. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

So far, there have been no direct talks between the two clubs for Balde, nor have there been any discussions between United and the Spaniard’s camp.

The Premier League giants, pushing for a top-four finish and return to the UEFA Champions League for next season, already have Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu as options at left-back.

As such, Manchester United might have had to shuffle things around in the position if Balde was considering a transfer in the summer. But, at this point in time, the 22-year-old defensive talent does not intend to leave.

So far this season, Balde, who has a contract with Barcelona until 2028, has played 32 matches across all competitions, registering a return of three assists in the process.