Alejandro Balde, who has ‘previously resisted’ a move away from Barcelona, could well be on the move in 2027.

According to reports in Spain (relayed by TeamTalk), the full-back’s limited role under Hansi Flick may lead to him pursuing a new venture elsewhere in order to increase his game time.

Alejandro Balde: The state of play 

MADRID, SPAIN - OCTOBER 26: Alejandro Balde of FC Barcelona controls the ball during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on October 26, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
(Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

So far this season, Balde has featured for just a measly 12 minutes across all competitions.

The 22-year-old, who is tied to the Camp Nou until 2028, ranks behind the experienced Joao Cancelo and Xavi Espart, 19, in Flick’s pecking order.

Last term, Balde was granted 42 appearances in total, 31 of which were from the off, so he’d have been crossing his fingers that he would continue playing a prominent role throughout 2026/2027.

Yet, just a month into the season, his hope will be starting to fade – hence being tipped to depart.

Balde has admirers at Old Trafford 

JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA - JANUARY 11: Alejandro Balde of FC Barcelona warms up prior to the Spanish Super Cup Final between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid at King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
(Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

It’s well known that Manchester United will be in the market for a left-back next year, though whether that’ll be in January or the summer remains to be seen.

From fans’ perspective, bringing one in as soon as possible, so in the winter, will be influential in the side’s results as they navigate three competitions (Premier League, Champions League and the FA Cup).

Michael Carrick is currently relying on Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu, both of whom have already sustained injury problems and missed fixtures in recent weeks.

Balde poses as a young but still proven option, albeit he has never tested himself outside of his native Spain.

Reports have also suggested that a name on United’s shortlist is Crystal Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell.

The 27-year-old is out of contract at Selhurst Park next June, and is garnering interest from the Red Devils, Liverpool and other sides in the division.

Author

  • Isabel, 25, is a football writer who has previously gained experience in the industry as the editor of Stretty News, along with work on Caught Offside, Last Word on Football and Give Me Sport. She is now the editor of UtdReport.