Balde, Zirkzee and Matanovic: four transfers Man United could seal before Tuesday's deadline

Manchester United are pushing to finalise multiple transfers before Tuesday’s deadline, with manager Michael Carrick’s squad still short in key areas despite a busy summer of midfield recruitment.

The arrivals of Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba, alongside Kobbie Mainoo’s resurgence, have given United formidable depth in central midfield. Attention has now shifted to the left-back position and the forward line, where the club are looking to add cover and move on fringe players before the window shuts.

Alejandro Balde

United initially targeted Newcastle’s Lewis Hall at left-back but have since turned their attention to Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde. The 22-year-old Spanish international is valued at around £30 million by Barcelona, though United would prefer a loan arrangement. Balde’s recent demotion from Hansi Flick’s starting XI — he was named on the bench in Barcelona’s most recent fixture — could encourage the Catalan club to sanction a departure. United’s need for a long-term successor to Luke Shaw, who has a history of fitness problems, may ultimately push them towards a permanent deal.

Joshua Zirkzee

Joshua Zirkzee has been linked with an exit all summer and appears close to sealing a move to Fiorentina. The Dutch forward has struggled for form and a regular starting place since joining from Bologna, and the Italian club are reported to be frontrunners for his signature on a loan deal with an obligation to buy. A move to Serie A would give the 23-year-old the fresh start he needs after a difficult debut season in England.

Igor Matanovic

Zirkzee’s departure would open a squad spot for another striker, and Freiburg’s Igor Matanovic has been identified as a potential addition. The 23-year-old Croatia international scored 15 goals for Freiburg last season and has attracted interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Fiorentina as well. Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport reports that United have Matanovic “in their sights” as a squad option to share the attacking burden with Benjamin Sesko.

With Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo already providing versatility across the front line, any incoming striker would likely serve as depth rather than a first-choice starter. United’s ability to move quickly on these targets in the final days of the window will shape the options available to Carrick as the club prepare to compete across multiple competitions this season.