Barcelona have reportedly made left-back Alejandro Balde available for transfer, and Manchester United are now able to pursue a deal for around €50 million (£43 million), according to Marca. This development comes as United reassess their options after previously considering Newcastle’s Lewis Hall, who is valued at £60 million.
United’s interest in Balde arrives as they continue to seek reinforcements at left-back, despite focusing heavily on midfield additions. The 22-year-old Balde has been deemed ‘transferable’ by Barcelona, who are reportedly open to offers as they reshape their squad.
Meanwhile, United have withdrawn from the race to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest. Despite Manchester City submitting a bid of £121 million, Forest are demanding a guaranteed fee of at least £120 million, a figure United deem excessive for the player. Sources indicate that United do not believe Anderson’s value justifies such a significant investment and are now focusing on alternative midfield targets.
The pursuit of Sandro Tonali could also be complicated, with Fabrizio Romano suggesting Manchester City may shift their focus from Anderson to the Newcastle midfielder. This would remove Tonali from United’s list of potential signings. Romano highlighted that Arsenal also have interest in Tonali, creating further competition for his signature.
However, there is more positive news regarding West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes. Journalist Chris Winterburn believes United will ultimately sign the Portuguese midfielder, viewing him as a player who can raise the overall quality of the midfield and provide rotation for Kobbie Mainoo. Winterburn suggests United’s midfield strategy involves securing two players to improve the team’s floor, with Fernandes fitting that profile, and then adding a further player to elevate the ceiling of the midfield options.
