Newcastle boss rules out Hall move as United eye Balde amid left-back search

Manchester United’s search for left-back cover has produced two contrasting developments, with Newcastle shutting the door on Lewis Hall and Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde suddenly available after being dropped by Hansi Flick.

Newcastle head coach Matthias Jaissle made his position on Hall unmistakably clear when former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel, working as a pundit during Newcastle’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool, told the German coach directly: “We’re after your left-back.” Jaissle’s response left little room for interpretation: “No chance! No chance!”

The 21-year-old Hall had just played in that draw against Liverpool, earning praise for his overall display before conceding a penalty that denied Newcastle a win. United manager Michael Carrick has identified the left-back position as a priority, with Hall seen as competition for Luke Shaw. Newcastle’s firm stance complicates that plan, particularly after the Magpies have already lost Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali, and Bruno Guimaraes in the same window.

With Hall apparently off the table, attention has shifted to Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde. The 22-year-old was left out of Barcelona’s matchday squad for their 5-0 win over Elche on Sunday, and Spanish publication Sport reported that Flick held a face-to-face meeting with the defender on Monday to address his future at the club.

According to the report, Flick is willing to retain Balde but wants a firm commitment from the player to compete for his place. If that assurance is not forthcoming, the talks could “open the door” for Balde to leave the Catalan club — a scenario that would place United in a strong position to move.

Carrick’s side have already been active in the window. Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos both started in midfield during a 2-0 defeat to Hull City at the weekend, and United have since agreed a fee with Brighton for Carlos Baleba to add further competition in that area. The left-back slot, however, remains unresolved with the window closing.