Balde left out of Barcelona's opener as Man United loan interest grows with meeting imminent

Alejandro Balde’s Barcelona future is in serious doubt after the 22-year-old left-back was left out of the club’s 5-0 curtain-raiser against Elche, with Manchester United identified as one of several clubs to have submitted an offer for the Catalan academy graduate.

Manchester United, managed by Michael Carrick in his first season as permanent head coach, are reported by Mundo Deportivo to have made a formal approach for Balde. ESPN has noted, however, that club sources at Old Trafford have played down the likelihood of completing the deal, though Barcelona have been made aware of United’s interest.

Hansi Flick confirmed after the Elche match that Balde was deliberately left out to allow him mental clarity during an unsettled period. “I spoke with Balde this morning and told him that I think he’s not here at 100%, clear your mind and then we’ll talk,” the Barcelona head coach said. Reports indicate Flick intends to hold a face-to-face meeting with the full-back on Monday night before any decision on his future is reached.

Balde himself is said to be seeking assurances over his playing time, with Joao Cancelo and Xavi Espart both competing for the left-back berth. The Spanish club are believed to value him at up to £34 million, while United would prefer to structure any move as a season-long loan with an option to buy permanently.

United’s need for left-back cover has become more pressing after a 2-0 opening-day defeat at Hull. Luke Shaw featured in that loss, but Carrick is understood to be targeting defensive reinforcements. A separate pursuit of midfielder Carlos Baleba is reportedly close to completion, which may free up resources and focus for the full-back position.

Separate reports linking Lewis Hall with a move from the North East to Old Trafford were dismissed by his club’s manager, Matthias Jaissle, leaving Balde as the primary target in that position. With a Flick meeting scheduled and multiple clubs circling, the next 48 hours appear likely to determine where Balde plays his football this season.