Man Utd could turn INEOS‑backed left‑back into January signing

Only 12 minutes of action for Barcelona’s 22‑year‑old left‑back Alejandro Balde this season, and Manchester United could sign him in the January window, says manager Michael Carrick as the club prepares a defensive overhaul. Man fans will watch the move closely.

Utd's scouting chief confirmed that the left‑back could reconsider his future as early as the winter window, with INEOS backing the potential fee. Carrick stressed that a January arrival would accelerate the club’s defensive rebuild.

Summer signings and midfield refresh

The Red Devils overhauled their attack in the summer of 2025, bringing in Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko. Those forwards added depth and firepower after a lacklustre previous campaign.

2026 saw the midfield refreshed by Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Carlos Balela. The trio bolstered creativity and control in the centre of the park.

Defence plans and Balde’s situation

NEXT up in 2027 is the defence, with a minimum THREE arrivals expected. United must address the left‑back vacancy as Luke Shaw enters his thirties and Patrick Dorgu is viewed more as a winger than a full‑back.

Utd also targeted Newcastle’s Lewis Hall, but the Magpies refused to sell after offloading Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon. Hall subsequently signed a new contract at St. James’ Park, calling the move a “no‑brainer”.

Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde emerged as the next option, with United contacting his agent Jorge Mendes in the latter part of the summer. Balde, however, insisted on staying at Barcelona, leaving the deal unfinished.

Since the season began, Balde has logged just 12 minutes across eight matches, sitting behind Joao Cancelo and Xavi Espart in the pecking order. Mundo Deportivo warned that the lack of playing time may prompt a mid‑season exit.

With only one year remaining on his contract, set to expire in 2028, United could secure Balde for a fee far below typical Premier League prices.

The club now faces the dilemma of signing a third‑choice left‑back, balancing potential cost savings against the risk of limited impact as it continues its broader transfer programme.