Manchester United could return for Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde during the January transfer window after failing to agree a deal for the Spain international last summer.
The potential move is reported by The Touchline, which says the two clubs were unable to reach an agreement over Balde’s transfer during the previous transfer window.
Balde was also reluctant to leave Barcelona at that stage, meaning the proposed switch did not progress. However, the situation could change if the 22-year-old continues to receive limited opportunities at the Catalan club.
According to the report, Balde may consider leaving Barcelona in January if he is not given enough playing time. Manchester United are therefore again being linked with the defender, having already been involved in discussions over a possible move during the summer.
Balde has not made a single appearance for Barcelona so far this season. His lack of involvement is understood to be the factor that could prompt him to reconsider his position, despite his previous desire to remain with the club.
The defender’s current contract with Barcelona runs until 2028. That agreement leaves the club with a long-term commitment to the player, while Transfermarkt values Balde at 50m euros.
No transfer has been agreed between Barcelona and Manchester United, and any move would depend on Balde’s playing situation developing over the coming months. For now, the report indicates only that the possibility of a January departure could be considered if his opportunities do not increase.
Balde’s future has consequently become a point of interest ahead of the winter market. Barcelona will have to assess whether to retain a player tied to the club until 2028, while Balde will weigh his preference to stay against the need for regular football.
Manchester United’s interest could provide a potential destination should the defender decide that a change is necessary. The clubs’ inability to settle a deal last summer means negotiations would have to be revisited if the situation leads to a renewed approach in January.