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Alejandro Balde has reportedly changed his stance on leaving Barcelona and is now open to a transfer this summer.
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Balde has reportedly given his agent Jorge Mendes permission to explore a move away from Barcelona.
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Barcelona are believed to want significantly more than the €20 million offer already made by Benfica.
August 24, (THEWILL) — Manchester United’s need for a left-back has become more obvious after their opening-day defeat by Hull City.
Manchester United’s interest in Balde is not new, but the situation surrounding the Barcelona defender appears to have changed.
Reports earlier in the week suggested the Spain international was not interested in leaving Barcelona, potentially ending United’s hopes of bringing him to Old Trafford.
According to reports from Spain, Balde has now authorised Mendes to investigate opportunities elsewhere, putting a potential transfer back on the agenda before the deadline.
Aston Villa are also said to have made an approach, although their financial position could make a deal difficult to complete.
Barcelona set asking price
Barcelona are believed to have already rejected a €20 million proposal from Benfica for the left-back.
The Spanish club are reportedly looking for between €40 million and €45 million before considering a sale.
With Balde still under contract for almost two more seasons, Barcelona are not under immediate pressure to accept a reduced offer.
However, his reported willingness to leave could force the club to consider whether selling now is the best solution.
Flick provides fresh clue
Balde was notably absent from Barcelona’s squad for their match against Elche on Sunday.
Manager Hansi Flick was subsequently asked about the defender’s omission and indicated that Balde was not considered fully ready for the match.
“I spoke with Balde this morning and told him that I think he’s not here at 100%, clear your mind, and then we’ll talk”, Flick said.
The comments have added further intrigue to the situation, although they do not necessarily confirm that the defender is being pushed towards the exit.
United continue left-back search
Manchester United have been searching for defensive reinforcements throughout the summer.
Lewis Hall had emerged as one of their preferred targets, but Newcastle have reportedly made the England international unavailable after already allowing several important players to leave.
United have consequently explored other possibilities, including Racing Santander teenager Jorge Salinas and West Ham defender El Hadji Malick Diouf.
Balde now represents another potential solution.
His experience at Barcelona and at international level would make him a significant addition to Carrick’s squad, although United would have to negotiate a substantial fee if Barcelona remain firm on their valuation.
With the transfer deadline approaching, the situation could develop quickly as United decide whether to make a formal move for the Spain international.
Olumide Atiba is a sports journalist with THEWILL, known for his keen news sense and compelling storytelling. He has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, well-structured reports that resonate with readers, with a strong focus on football coverage
