Manchester United transfer target Alejandro Balde has been left out of Barcelona's matchday squad, with his future expected to be resolved before deadline day. United are exploring left‑back options to compete with Luke Shaw and contact has already been made with Balde's representatives.
United's left-back search intensifies
Shaw drew criticism for his role in Hull City's second goal during United's 2-0 defeat at the MKM Stadium on Saturday. Harry Amass had been viewed as a candidate for increased minutes this season and has impressed enough to warrant consideration, but the youngster is keen on regular football after getting a taste of it last term - a stance that could push him toward an exit.
United are weighing up several options, including Balde, who has emerged as a genuine target. Journalist Fabrizio Romano previously reported that United have made 'calls' to both Barcelona and the player's camp to assess the feasibility of a deal, though the full‑back is understood to be happy at the Camp Nou.
Barcelona's squad changes and Balde's omission
However, Barcelona have brought back ex-Manchester City star Joao Cancelo, who returned after spending the second half of last season on loan at the club. His arrival adds further competition for Balde at left‑back, alongside Gerard Martin.
Even so, Balde's omission from Hansi Flick's matchday squad for Sunday's opener against Elche suggests a different picture. The German made that clear during his press conference when addressing Balde's situation.
"It's a club situation, we're making a lot of changes," Flick said. "We have to wait for the end of the market. It's normal when you decide that you want new players: you think about how to make the team stronger."
"For now, this is our situation. We were clear with these players and now we have to wait until the end."
Other exits and United's priorities
In addition to Balde, Marc Casado, Hector Fort and Jules Kounde are also heading towards the exit. Balde, Casado and Fort have all been left out of the matchday squad.
Casado has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford after United showed initial interest in the midfielder back in June. However, the club instead pushed ahead with deals for Andrey Santos, who arrived from Chelsea for £48million, and Youri Tielemans for £35m from Aston Villa.
As a result, United are now prioritising other areas for the remainder of the summer window. Balde was a regular under Flick last season, making 42 appearances across all competitions. Hamstring and muscle injuries kept him out for a combined 10 matches during the campaign.
