Manchester United appear determined to address one of the biggest weaknesses they failed to fix during the summer transfer window.
The Red Devils are now planning to strengthen at left-back after deciding against bringing in a new option during the summer.
According to Mundo Deportivo, United are monitoring the situation of Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde ahead of the January transfer window.
The Red Devils were interested in the 22-year-old during the summer, but Balde ultimately opted to remain at Barcelona and fight for his place.
However, his decision has not yet paid off, with Balde still waiting to start a La Liga game this season.
He has played just 12 minutes in La Liga this season, coming in the 7-2 win over Racing Santander.
Balde may not be the ideal solution
Balde came through Barcelona’s renowned academy and was once viewed as the natural successor to club legend Jordi Alba.
The Spain international has already earned seven caps for his country and made 169 appearances for the Catalan giants.
However, his development appears to have stalled over the past 12 to 24 months.
That lack of progress may explain why Barcelona manager Hansi Flick currently has Joao Cancelo and Xavi Espart ahead of Balde in the left-back pecking order.
Balde possesses explosive acceleration and the ability to cover ground quickly, but his injury history should raise concerns for United.
The defender missed two months of competitive football last season after suffering muscle and hamstring problems.
He was also sidelined for more than 20 matches during the 2022-23 campaign after suffering a tendon rupture.
United need to explore alternative targets who can offer greater reliability and consistently contribute at first-team level.
Lewis Hall remains their dream target, but the Newcastle United defender has recently committed his future to the club by signing a new contract.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
