Manchester United could make a renewed move for Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde in the January transfer window, with reports in Spain suggesting the defender is now open to a switch after falling out of favour at Camp Nou. Meanwhile, the behaviour of academy star JJ Gabriel has been called into question.
Balde's limited role at Barcelona
Balde was strongly linked with a move to Old Trafford during the summer but ultimately chose to stay and fight for his position. However, that fight has so far proven unsuccessful, with the Spanish left-back seeing just 12 minutes of action across all competitions this season.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has promoted academy graduate Xavi Espart to the starting left-back role, while summer recruit Joao Cancelo is next in line. According to Mundo Deportivo, being sidelined could prompt Balde to reassess his situation this winter, despite reassurances from agent Jorge Mendes that Balde would be "fine in the future," as reported by the Mirror.
Gabriel's behaviour questioned
Ex-United assistant coach and scout Mick Brown has suggested that JJ Gabriel is burning bridges at Old Trafford. Amid talk of a move to another European heavyweight, it is alleged that the rapport between Gabriel and his under-21 team-mates has deteriorated.
United recently denied Gabriel's request to have his registration cancelled, with Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Barcelona linked with his signature. "There is the suggestion, of course, that United might be better off without JJ Gabriel," Brown told Football Insider.
"Regardless of his obvious talent, this situation has called into question his character and that of the people around him, and is that the type of player you want around the club?"
"It's sad, because the boy is very talented and it's a shame how this situation has played out in recent times. Interestingly enough, since all of this has kicked off, I've watched him closely playing for the academy sides and one thing that interests me is his teammates' reactions."
"When somebody scores for the Under-21s, all the players go running over, they're jumping and hugging each other and all of that. But a few times when JJ Gabriel has scored, yes they go and celebrate with him, give him a high five, and then they all trot back and he doesn't seem to get the same reception."
"Now, I might be reading too much into it, but from my point of view I have to wonder whether his actions have caused issues in the dressing room."
