Alejandro Balde is reportedly pushing towards a shock Manchester United transfer as Barça demand €40M and reject United’s loan proposal

Manchester United have reportedly intensified their pursuit of Alejandro Balde, but a major difference in how the deal should be structured could ultimately decide whether the Barcelona left-back arrives at Old Trafford.

United are said to favour a season-long loan with an option to make the move permanent. The idea would allow the club to evaluate the 22-year-old over an extended period before committing to a significant transfer fee.

Barcelona, however, appear to have other plans. The Catalan club reportedly want Balde to leave on a permanent basis and are believed to value the defender at somewhere between €30 million and €40 million. That stance has created a clear disagreement between the two clubs, with United pushing for flexibility while Barça are looking for an immediate financial return.

The Red Devils are still searching for another left-back to compete with and provide cover for Luke Shaw, having considered several options throughout the transfer window. Balde has now emerged as one of the more attractive possibilities, particularly because of his pace, attacking ability and experience at the highest level despite his age.

A loan deal could also appeal to United because of the structure involved in Marcus Rashford’s move to Barcelona, although Barcelona’s financial situation means they may be more interested in securing a sizeable transfer fee this summer.

Questions over Balde’s future have grown following his omission from Barcelona’s squad for their opening La Liga match against Elche. Hansi Flick explained that the defender was not currently in the best mental state and needed time to clear his head, a comment that has only increased speculation surrounding his position at the club.

Barcelona’s reported preference for João Cancelo at left-back, alongside the emergence of youngster Xavi Espart, could further complicate Balde’s situation and potentially make an exit more realistic.

Manchester United are understood to be keeping a close eye on developments and have reportedly made contact over a possible transfer. Balde has also been linked with leaving Camp Nou before the transfer deadline, although no agreement has been reached at this stage.

The situation ultimately comes down to two very different proposals: United want a loan with an option to buy, while Barcelona are pushing for a permanent transfer worth around €30m–€40m.

For United, Balde would offer youth, speed and valuable experience as they look to strengthen the left side of their defence. For Barcelona, selling him could provide a much-needed injection of funds that could be used to strengthen other areas of the squad.

With the transfer deadline approaching, Balde’s next move remains uncertain. Will he continue his career at Camp Nou, or could Old Trafford become his next destination?