Manchester United face a significant financial hurdle if they want to sign Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde before the summer transfer window closes, according to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano. The Premier League club has held talks with super agent Jorge Mendes regarding a deal for the Spain international, but the overall costs remain prohibitive for a permanent transfer.
Transfer Fee and Salary Demands Block Permanent Move
According to Fabrizio Romano via his YouTube channel, the total package required to secure Balde on a permanent deal is too expensive for Manchester United. Sources indicate that both the transfer fee demanded by Barcelona and the player’s salary requirements exceed what INEOS is willing to commit right now, particularly following a summer midfield rebuild that included deals for Carlos Baleba, Andrey Santos, and Youri Tielemans totaling £148 million upfront.
While TEAMtalk transfer insider Graeme Bailey reported on August 26 that Manchester United were locked in discussions with Jorge Mendes over the 22-year-old, Romano confirmed that talks stalled over valuation. Yahoo Sports corroborates that Manchester United pivoted to explore Balde after missing out on England international Lewis Hall, whom Newcastle United deemed entirely off-limits.
Barcelona’s Stance on a Loan Deal
As things stand, a transfer is unlikely unless Barcelona softens its stance on a temporary departure. According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona are not currently accepting a loan deal and have not given the green light for a temporary exit.
Furthermore, Yahoo Sports notes that Alejandro Balde has informed Barcelona chiefs of his desire to stay at Camp Nou and fight for a spot under Hansi Flick. Romano adds that while Balde wants to remain in Spain, an eleventh-hour shift by Barcelona to permit a loan could change the landscape before Deadline Day.
"At the moment, it is very complicated because Barcelona are not accepting a loan, as of today," Romano said on his YouTube channel. "Still no green light to a loan. Then, if they open to a loan in the final hours of the market, that’s another story."
Alternative Left-Back Options for Erik ten Hag’s Squad
With a permanent deal for Balde financially out of reach and Barcelona resisting a loan, Manchester United are actively evaluating alternative targets to provide competition for Luke Shaw. Romano compared the club’s search to past opportunistic business, such as when United signed Sergio Reguilon on loan from Tottenham.
Football365 notes that manager Michael Carrick wants additions to strengthen the squad, while Yahoo Sports reports that INEOS maintains a shortlist featuring Racing Santander’s Jorge Salinas and RB Leipzig captain David Raum. However, time is running out for the Red Devils to finalise an agreement before the window slams shut.
Pro Tip: Deadline day deals often hinge on clubs finding adequate replacements. Keep an eye on whether selling clubs like RB Leipzig or Racing Santander can source cover before sanctioning late exits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Alejandro Balde’s transfer to Manchester United stalled?
According to Fabrizio Romano, the deal is blocked because both the transfer fee and player salary required for a permanent transfer are too expensive for Manchester United, while Barcelona are currently refusing to sanction a loan.
Does Alejandro Balde want to leave Barcelona?
No. According to reports cited by Fabrizio Romano and Yahoo Sports, Balde has informed Barcelona chiefs that his preference is to stay at the club and compete for his place.
Who are Manchester United’s alternative left-back targets?
Aside from considering Alejandro Balde, Manchester United have previously looked at Lewis Hall before turning their attention toward other experienced international profiles, with Racing Santander’s Jorge Salinas and RB Leipzig captain David Raum also appearing on club shortlists according to Yahoo Sports.
Join the conversation below! Do you think Manchester United should push for a late loan deal for Alejandro Balde, or target a different left-back before the window closes? Leave a comment and share your thoughts.