Man Utd remain 'interested' in €40m alternative to dream signing

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Matthew Judge | Editor

Manchester United are still interested in signing Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde, according to fresh reports in Spain.

The Red Devils explored the possibility of acquiring Balde in the summer but they were unable to agree a deal with Barcelona.

United were keen to sign the 22-year-old on loan but the La Liga giants were only interested in a permanent deal, according to The Times.

But Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo claims the Premier League side have not abandoned their pursuit of the Spain international.

Balde has only received 12 minutes of playing time this season, fuelling speculation he could leave Barcelona in the January transfer window.

He was a late substitute in the La Liga win over Racing Santander on 16 September but has remained on the bench for six other matches.

Balde has made 169 appearances and registered three goals and 21 assists since breaking into the Barcelona first team in September 2021.

Man Utd make Hall their top target at left-back

United meanwhile continue to be linked with a number of left-backs after missing out on signing one in the summer transfer window.

Various sources understand their top target remains Lewis Hall despite failing to extract him from Newcastle United in the lead up to the 2026-27 season.

Hall, who represented England in the recent Nations League clashes against Czechia and Croatia, signed a new contract with Newcastle in September.

However, Man Utd are believed to be undeterred in their pursuit of Hall, who is reportedly valued at around €58.9million (£50m).

Barcelona, on the other hand, have placed a €40m (£35m) valuation on the shoulders of Balde, according to The Times.

Former Chelsea defender Hall will hope to feature for England when they entertain Czechia in the Nations League this evening.

The 22-year-old will then return to Newcastle ahead of their Premier League trip to Coventry City next Monday (12 October).

Michael Carrick's United meanwhile return to action when they host strugglers Tottenham Hotspur in the league on Saturday afternoon.

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