Catalan stubbornness? Manchester United faces hurdles in pursuit of Balde

Manchester United is determined to strengthen the left side of their defense before the summer transfer window closes.

Details: The English giants have shown concrete interest in Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde and are hoping to reach an agreement for the transfer of the 22-year-old.

According to reputable outlet ESPN, Manchester United’s management is aiming to strike a loan deal with an option to buy the player outright. The Red Devils are searching for reinforcements at left-back and have identified the Spaniard as one of their top targets.

However, Barcelona’s stance is sharply different from what the English club is proposing. The Catalan side has no interest in a temporary deal and will only consider a permanent transfer for their homegrown talent. The Blaugrana’s leadership expects to receive between €30 and €40 million for the defender.

It’s worth noting that Alejandro Balde has been part of Barcelona’s first team since 2022. In the last 2025/26 season, the Spanish full-back featured in 42 matches across all competitions for the Catalan club. Esteemed portal Transfermarkt currently values the player at €50 million, and his contract with Barça runs until the summer of 2028.

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