Transfers
Fabrizio Romano's update stalls Man Utd left‑back pursuit
Manchester United face a pressing left‑back void after a calamitous defeat to Hull City and criticism of veteran Luke Shaw, and the latest Information' drops a move update as Fabrizio Romano says the club’s sign‑on hopes for Alejandro Balde remain uncertain.
The Red Devils were stunned by newly promoted Hull City at the MKM Stadium last weekend, with Michael Carrick’s side ridiculed for a defensive collapse. Club legend Wayne Rooney slammed Luke Shaw’s defending as ‘schoolboy’ level, highlighting the ongoing problem at left‑back.
Why United need a new left‑back
United have already abandoned the pursuit of Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall, leaving a narrow window to reinforce. With the deadline looming and the Premier League side known to be desperate for a left‑back, securing a replacement will be challenging.
Luke Shaw’s recent performances have intensified calls for a change, and the club’s recent loss underscores the urgency to shore up the defensive flank.
Balde’s stance and United’s options
Alejandro Balde, 22, is a product of the Barcelona academy and has made 168 first‑team appearances, including 28 La Liga outings last season, but has not featured this term under Xavi Espart.
He is represented by super‑agent Jorge Mendes, and Fabrizio Romano quoted him saying, "Alejandro Balde, I can stand by my information, wants to stay and fight for his place. He doesn't want to leave Barcelona and has a fantastic relationship with teammates in the dressing room."
Reports suggest Manchester United prefer a loan with an option to buy rather than an obligation, with Barcelona reportedly setting a £30 million price tag; the Champions League prospect could also appeal to the defender.
Scott Heppell of Reuters supplied the photo credit, and By  Toby Bryant, a senior sports journalist, wrote the piece at PM GMT+1. Bryant has been with GiveMeSport since July 2026 after previously working for LondonWorld covering Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and West Ham. His earlier roles were Sports Lifestyle Writer for Iconic Media, reporting from Brighton and Newcastle, with bylines appearing in the , Daily , FantasyFootballScout, FourFourTwo Magazine, Metro and the Irish Times. He contributes News for Us, urging readers to Try the platform, Give feedback, and notes US regulations; the article also mentions St James' Park, My latest Update provides Information on the Left‑back market, and Scott adds If Barcelona do not push him, the deal stalls.