Manchester United are monitoring the situation of Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde ahead of the winter transfer window, according to Mundo Deportivo.
The Red Devils desperately need a new left-sided defender and could turn to the 22-year-old.
The 20-time English top-flight champions have Luke Shaw, but he no longer has the athleticism to get up and down the left flank.
United are crying out for a new left-back, and they have set their sights on the Spain international who has fallen down the pecking order at his club.
The Man United target is yet to start a league game for the Spanish champions this season, but he showed what he was all about in his sole 12-minute cameo,
He created a big chance and won all three of his ground duels. The ‘fast and explosive‘ ace should be getting more chances to prove his mettle.
Balde has clearly suffered a downturn in form and might benefit from a change in environment. Man United could be the perfect stomping ground for him.
Man United should focus on signing Lewis Hall
For all of Balde’s qualities, United may be better served by pursuing Lewis Hall.
The Newcastle United defender is currently in better form and has established himself as one of the most reliable young left-backs in English football.
Hall also offers United a level of availability that Balde has struggled to maintain. The Spaniard’s injury record is a genuine concern.
The England international would provide more defensive security while still possessing the technical quality and attacking ability needed for the modern game.
His familiarity with English football would also make his adaptation to Old Trafford considerably easier.
Hall could command a higher transfer fee than Balde and likely won’t be available in January, but United should be prepared to pay the premium for a player who offers more.
