Manchester United appear likely to be frustrated once again in their search for a new left-back, with Alejandro Balde the latest player to snub a move to Old Trafford.
Michael Carrick’s defensive issues were laid bare last weekend when his side slumped to a 2-0 opening weekend defeat against newly-promoted Hull City. With Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt not yet available for selection, United went into the new season with Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven as their central defensive pairing. Once that pair recovers, United should have enough in that department, especially with Leny Yoro also in reserve, but it is at full-back where they look particularly short.
Left-back search hits another roadblock
Luke Shaw featured in all 38 Premier League games last season, but doubts remain over his durability, particularly given the Red Devils will have, unlike last term, European commitments to contend with.
Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall had represented United’s top left-back target all summer, but the England international looks almost certain to remain at St James’ Park. Indeed, new Magpies manager Matthias Jaissle issued a stern hands-off warning following Sunday’s game against Liverpool when it was put to him by Peter Schmeichel, working as a pundit on TV, that Hall was of interest to United.
Balde decides to stay at Barcelona
Frustrated in their efforts to sign the former Chelsea defender, United have been casting their net far and wide in order to find a solution for one of their problem positions, which had led them to Balde. Signing the 22-year-old, either permanently or on loan, had initially seemed like a realistic prospect and one which gained momentum after he didn’t make the squad for Sunday’s 5-0 win against Elche.
According to multiple sources in Spain, however, Balde is now minded to stay and fight for his place. Balde has immediately been rewarded by Hansi Flick, who has included him in his squad ahead of Monday’s game against Rayo Vallecano.
“Alejandro Balde is part of the squad for tomorrow,” said Flick on Wednesday. “I’ve spoken with him, and the important thing is that he’s fully committed to us. He’s 22 years old and very young; he has potential.”
