Manchester United remain heavily linked with a move for Alejandro Balde this summer and Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has opened up on the player’s future. The Red Devils have invested heavily in midfield this summer, signing Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.
With a deal for Carlos Baleba also all but completed, INEOS have turned their focus to other areas of the pitch. A new left-back remains on the agenda, with Luke Shaw’s contract expiring at the end of this season.
The Englishman started all 38 Premier League games last season, but has recently turned 31. United are fighting on four fronts this campaign so they need to add more cover for Shaw in the squad.
With a move for Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall next to impossible this summer, the Red Devils have turned their attention to alternatives. Recent reports have suggested that Balde is among the options on their wish list at the moment.
Ideal for United’s left-back position
Balde rose through the ranks at Barcelona before breaking into the senior side in 2021. The Spaniard has since cemented his place in the first-team squad and has been a key figure under Hansi Flick as well.
Balde registered three assists in 42 appearances across competitions last season, helping the Catalans win the league and the Supercopa de Espana.
Alejandro Balde Stats: 2025/26 Season
| Competition | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Assists | Yellow cards | Red cards | Minutes played |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LaLiga | 28 | 21 | - | 2 | - | - | 1,875' |
| UEFA Champions League | 8 | 6 | - | 1 | - | - | 525' |
| Copa del Rey | 4 | 2 | - | - | - | - | 252' |
| Supercopa | 2 | 2 | - | - | - | - | 154' |
| Total | 42 | 31 | - | 3 | - | - | 2,806' |
Source: Transfermarkt.
Balde’s attacking ability and blistering pace make him the perfect successor to Luke Shaw in the left-back role. The 22 year old fits the age profile preferred by INEOS and his trophy-winning experience could also be a fantastic addition to United’s squad.
The Spaniard has not been included in Barcelona’s squad for the upcoming LaLiga game against Elche, further adding to speculation regarding his future. Flick has now offered his views on Balde’s situation at Camp Nou to the press ahead of Sunday’s game.
Flick opens up about Balde’s future
When asked specifically about Balde and whether he counted on the player this summer, Flick issued a bold response. He said: “It’s a difficult question. Balde has a lot of quality.”
“For me it is important, as I have said before, you have to have the condition to compete in a home position and this I want to see in each player.”
“I see what they do every day, which shows me that they are ready to play at the highest level. In the end, we will only succeed as a team. We need everyone 100% committed to us.”
Final Thoughts
Balde would be an absolutely stunning addition to Carrick’s squad and would instantly improve the team. United, as such, should do everything possible to get a deal across the line.
Feature image Judit Cartiel via Getty Images
