Manchester United plot left back signing with Alejandro Balde emerging as top target

Manchester United are 18th in the Premier League with only one win in 10 matches this season, and Michael Carrick has already paid the price for the team’s terrible form after he was sacked by the Red Devils today.

Now Mauricio Pochettino is the top contender to replace him but recent form has suggested that the Red Devils need to look at making several changes in their squad besides the coach, with left back a role that has come under widespread scrutiny.

Luke Shaw’s unreliability due to his fitness and form, coupled with Patrick Dorgu being more effective in an offensive role means a left back’s purchase is set to become United’s top priority for the January transfer window, according to TEAMtalk.

Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde has emerged as the leading option for Manchester United, as per the source, with RB Leipzig full back David Raum also an option as Pochettino eyes his maiden signing at Old Trafford to end the season strong.

Balde move remains a possibility this January

Alejandro Balde was linked with departing Barcelona in the summer but he stayed put to compete for his place in Hansi Flick’s starting eleven, but his inclination towards Joao Cancelo and Gerard Martin means the Spaniard may leave Camp Nou soon.

Some weeks ago, Balde was being valued by Barca at £42 million and it is likely to be a fair indicator of what Manchester United may need to pay for the left back’s services in the January transfer window at the start of 2027.

He promises to be an excellent signing for United, with Balde’s pace, agility, tackling and physicality set to make him a significant upgrade over Luke Shaw. Meanwhile, his passing, crossing and offensive abilities make him the perfect long-term option.

The 23-year-old, however, would need to be offered a significant increment if United are to lure him away from Barcelona as their current standing in the Premier League, coupled with the likelihood of missing out on European football next year unlikely to make them a very appealing contender for his signing.