Manchester United's search for a left-back has taken a complex turn as transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano reveals that Alejandro Balde is firmly intent on staying at Barcelona.
Manager Michael Carrick remains active in the final days of the summer transfer window to secure defensive reinforcements, with the club having previously held discussions regarding the 22-year-old Spain international.
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Subscribe"Manchester United are still looking for a solution at left-back, but the deal for Balde is too expensive in terms of both the transfer fee and salary," Romano explained during his latest channel update.
While Barcelona are reportedly willing to offload players under the right economic conditions, they have not given any green light to a loan agreement that would suit United's current financial framework.
United Weighs Alternative Left-Back Options
"Balde wants to stay at Barcelona, and at the moment a permanent deal is very complicated due to the financial demands," Romano added, emphasizing that a dramatic late-window shift would be required for any movement.
As the deadline approaches, the Red Devils are widely expected to pivot toward alternative, cost-effective options to provide immediate competition and depth on the left side of defense.
With a permanent blockbuster transfer for top targets appearing unlikely, Manchester United's recruitment team is shifting focus toward experienced short-term solutions.
Club officials are evaluating profiles similar to previous stop-gap arrivals, seeking a reliable international operator capable of stepping in immediately without long-term financial bloat.