Man Utd ‘exhausted all options’ in late Alejandro Balde transfer push

Manchester United reportedly pushed until the final moments of the summer transfer window to sign Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde, but failed to convince either the player or his club.

Michael Carrick wanted another recognised left-back to strengthen his squad, with Luke Shaw currently his only experienced natural option. Harry Amass provides cover, while Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui can also operate on the left.

Balde emerged as one of several targets alongside Newcastle United's Lewis Hall, Club Brugge's Joaquin Seys and Racing Santander youngster Jorge Salinas.

According to Mundo Deportivo, United “exhausted all their options” in an attempt to bring Balde to Old Trafford on Deadline Day.

The 22-year-old has fallen down Barcelona's pecking order following the arrival of João Cancelo, while Xavi Espart has also moved ahead of him after starting the season strongly.

Hansi Flick has reportedly made it clear, both publicly and privately, that Balde will not have a major role.

That encouraged United to make their move.

However, their preferred structure created a major obstacle. United wanted a loan deal, while Barcelona were interested in a permanent sale.

AS reports Carrick's side continued pushing until the final minutes, but Balde himself remained determined to stay at Camp Nou and fight for his position.

Rejecting United could leave Balde facing an uncertain few months.

Despite his desire to remain, the Spain international is currently Barcelona's only outfield player yet to feature this season.

United must also continue without the additional left-back Carrick wanted.

Salinas represented a cheaper alternative because of his €16m release clause, but United and his other suitors ultimately declined to activate it.

Carrick will therefore rely on his existing options until at least January, while Balde must attempt to force his way back into Flick's plans.

Carrick must continue with Shaw, Amass and his versatile defensive options after United ended the window without another specialist left-back.

Balde faces his own challenge at Barcelona. If his lack of minutes continues through the autumn, both the player and United could have reason to reconsider the situation when the January window opens.