Man Utd learn immediate future of dream signing after 'commitment' message

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Matthew Judge | Editor

Manchester United-linked Alejandro Balde has been left out of the Barcelona squad ahead of their La Liga opener against Elche on Sunday.

The news comes after Barcelona boss Hansi Flick questioned whether Balde is willing to stay and fight for his place this season.

Fabrizio Romano understands United have contacted the representatives of the 22-year-old left-back to gauge his interest in joining them.

The Red Devils are believed to be prioritising a new signing at left-back before the transfer window closes in England on Tuesday, 1 September.

And now they have learned Balde will play no part in Barcelona’s trip to Elche as the Spanish giants begin the defence of their La Liga title.

Flick questions whether Balde wants to stay at Barcelona

In a pre-match press conference ahead of the game, Barcelona head coach Flick expressed doubts over whether Balde wants to stay at the club.

He told reporters: “He’s a player of immense quality, and it's important to know if he's convinced he can compete in his position.

“That's what I want to see from all my players. I need everyone to be one hundred percent, totally committed.”

STATS

Alejandro Balde

D (L)

Barcelona

Alejandro Balde

D (L)

Barcelona

All Tournaments

2025/26

• 42

  Games

• 0

  Goals

• 3

  Assists

View all stats

Since emerging through Barcelona’s youth system in September 2021, Balde has made 168 appearances for the club, scoring three goals.

He has won seven honours with Barcelona including three league titles and was named in the La Liga Team of the Season in 2022-23.

Balde has also earned seven caps for Spain.

United have been linked with a host of left-backs this summer

United have been linked with several left-backs this summer, including Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall and RB Leipzig’s David Raum.

Michael Carrick’s side are understood to be shifting their focus towards strengthening in that area of the pitch as their midfield rebuild comes to a close.

The 20-time league champions are set to announce the signing of Carlos Baleba from Brighton and Hove Albion for a €81m (£70m) package.

Baleba will become the third midfielder to move to United this summer following the earlier arrivals of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.

United endured a difficult start to the new Premier League season as they were comfortably beaten 2-0 at newly-promoted Hull City on Saturday.

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