Manchester United are reportedly considering a January move for Barcelona and Spain left-back Alejandro Balde as they look to add support and competition for Luke Shaw, 31. Left-back was identified as an area of focus at the start of the summer, but strengthening central midfield became the club's number one priority following Casemiro's departure.
Summer targets and current options
Newcastle and England full-back Lewis Hall was on United's radar until the transfer deadline, but a deal for the 22-year-old proved difficult. Hall signed a new long-term contract at St James' Park, and manager Michael Carrick entered the new season with Shaw and Harry Amass as the only specialist left-backs in his first-team squad.
Balde was among the left-backs linked with United throughout the summer, but according to Mundo Deportivo, the Spain international 'didn't even consider' leaving Barcelona at that time.
Balde's situation at Barcelona
Balde has been limited to just 12 minutes of action this season, leading to claims he may be forced to think about his future with the reigning La Liga champions. Joao Cancelo established himself as Barcelona's first-choice left-back last term, and La Masia academy product Xavi Espart has also overtaken Balde in the pecking order under Hansi Flick.
The report suggests Flick 'has noticed a stagnation' in Balde's performance level in matches and on the training ground, and United are 'keeping a close eye' on the situation ahead of the January window. While a summer move was never realistic, the winter market is said to 'present a moment that could change his perception of the future', especially if his playing time does not increase.
Contract and manager's comments
Balde has two years remaining on his current contract at the Camp Nou. Speaking earlier this month, Flick called on an 'unhappy' Balde to rise to the challenge and 'bring out the best version' of himself amid fierce competition for places.
'We have five full-backs – two on the right and three on the left,' the German told reporters. 'Nobody expected Xavi Espart to play at this level. Balde needs to bring out his best version. He is already doing that in training. '[I understand] that the player is not happy, because he wants to play and isn't getting minutes. He was key over the last two years. Things change. There's a different dynamic now, and we have to manage it. He is doing well, and I am happy with him. It's not an easy situation, it's a competition for a position.'
