Update On Manchester United And Their Pursuit Of This Barcelona Left-Back: What Should Carrick Do? | OneFootball

In a recent segment on Youtube, respected journalist Fabrizio Romano offered an update on Manchester United and their pursuit of Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde. Romano said,

“Guys, on Balde, Man Utd believe the deal is too expensive.

“So Man Utd also informed by Jorge Mendes over the weekend, on Sunday, about any movement around Balde.

“Jorge Mendes made sure Man Utd had all the conditions of the deal but Manchester United were only interested on loan, maybe with a buy option clause, maybe becoming an obligation under certain conditions.

“But Jorge Mendes told Man Utd, as of today, Barcelona want permanent transfer or nothing. The player also is keen on staying at Barcelona, so that’s the situation.

“Then should anything change I will let you know.

“I still expect Man Utd to sign a left-back but as for Balde, at the moment it looks complicated financially to complete this deal.”

Balde’s Important Role At Barcelona

Balde enjoyed a good run of form at the Catalan club in the previous campaign when he put in a run of impressive displays for them on the left flank. The 22-year-old picked up three assists in 42 matches for Barcelona last season in multiple competitions.

The Spanish talent is currently one of the talented left-backs in the Premier League. Therefore, it is no surprise that the Red Devils are showing interest in signing him on loan this month.

BARCELONA, SPAIN – OCTOBER 18: Bryan Gil of Girona challenges Alejandro Balde of FC Barcelona during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Girona FC at Spotify Camp Nou on October 18, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Balde’s current contract at the Nou Camp will expire in the summer of 2028, so Man United would have to make a convincing offer if they want to land him permanently in this transfer period.

What Should Manchester United Boss Michael Carrick Do With Regards To Balde?

Balde is a good tackler of the ball and can sense the danger well to earn possession back for his team inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when required and is an accurate distributor of the ball from the left flank.

The Spanish sensation is a good crosser as well. Balde mainly operates as a left-back but can also function as a left-sided wide player if told to do so. However, only time will tell whether he can make a smooth transition to life in the Premier League if the Red Devils decide to move in for him this month.

Balde would have added more quality and depth to Man United boss Michael Carrick’s defence. He is capable of challenging for regular first-team football at Old Trafford.

At 22, the future looks quite bright for Balde as long as he continues to improve with each year. Hence, Carrick should focus on signing him permanently in this transfer period or in January.