Manchester United handed huge double transfer update as fourth signing set for announcement

Manchester United have received a significant boost in their pursuit of Alejandro Balde, but Newcastle United have made it clear Lewis Hall will not be heading to Old Trafford.

Michael Carrick remains active in the transfer market following United’s disappointing 2-0 opening-day defeat at Hull City.

A new left-back is among the priorities, with United looking for a long-term successor to Luke Shaw, who is now 31 and has entered the final year of his contract.

Hall has been one of Manchester United’s leading left-back targets after establishing himself at Newcastle.

However, the Magpies have already lost Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon this summer and have no intention of allowing another important player to leave.

Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle made that position clear following Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Liverpool.

When former United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel told Jaissle that Manchester United were looking at Hall, the Newcastle boss responded:

“No chance.”

Hall remains under contract until 2029 and Newcastle are therefore under little pressure to negotiate.

That appears to have pushed United towards another target.

Barcelona defender Balde could now emerge as the more realistic option.

United made an initial approach for the 22-year-old last week, and the situation has developed significantly since.

Balde was left out of Barcelona’s squad for their 5-0 victory over Elche on Sunday.

Hansi Flick confirmed afterwards that transfer speculation had affected the defender’s focus.

“I spoke with Alejandro Balde today and said to him that I think you're not here 100 per cent, so it's best that you stay at home and clear your mind,” Flick said.

According to Sport, Balde now wants to leave Barcelona before the deadline and has instructed agent Jorge Mendes to explore a move to Manchester United.

Flick stressed that Barcelona have not told the Spain international to leave, meaning negotiations will still be required if United decide to make their move.

United are also preparing to officially announce Carlos Baleba.

A deal has been agreed with Brighton worth £65million plus £5m in add-ons, with the midfielder completing his medical and signing a five-year contract.

Baleba will become Carrick’s fourth senior addition following Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Karl Darlow.

However, United may have to wait to see him on the pitch. The Cameroon international is recovering from an ankle ligament injury and could remain unavailable until mid-September or potentially after the international break.

Manchester United can now focus their attention on Balde after Newcastle’s emphatic stance on Hall. With Baleba’s announcement expected and less than two weeks remaining before the deadline, the left-back position could be Carrick’s next major priority.

Would Alejandro Balde be the right long-term replacement for Luke Shaw at Manchester United?