<\/p>\n
Manchester United<\/a> could reportedly be able to sign Barcelona<\/a> defender Alejandro Balde in January, as per transfer<\/a> journalist Fabrizio Romano<\/span><\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n Since moving to Old Trafford from Southampton, Luke Shaw has had numerous fitness problems over the years. Still, he has continued to be the Red Devils\u2019 first-choice left-back option.<\/p>\n The Englishman started every Premier League<\/a> match last term but missed out on the derby against Manchester City<\/a> due to a minor problem last weekend.<\/p>\n Patrick Dorgu was purchased as a potential long-term replacement for Shaw, but Michael Carrick mainly used him as a forward over the last few months.<\/p>\n However, amid Shaw\u2019s absence, the Dane has been deployed in the left-back position in the last two matches, but his error led to the Citizens\u2019 winner.<\/p>\n Moreover, Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui can provide cover on the left side of the backline if needed, although they are right-backs by trait.<\/p>\n Now, on his YouTube channel<\/span><\/a>, Romano<\/em> states that Man Utd seriously considered signing a new left-back this summer, with Balde and Ian Maatsen emerging as the primary targets. However, Aston Villa<\/a> refused to let the Dutchman leave, having already sold Lucas Digne.<\/p>\n United held talks with Balde\u2019s super agent, Jorge Mendes, over a potential move, and he was in Barcelona to discuss with the Blaugrana\u2019s director Deco. However, the Old Trafford club only wanted to sign him on an initial loan with a conditional obligation to make the move permanent.<\/p>\n But the journalist claims that Barcelona didn\u2019t enter the loan move and were only looking to sell him permanently. Balde loves his boyhood club and is eager to stay.<\/p>\n However, he wants to play regular football and has found himself on the periphery thus far this season. Therefore, his situation is going to be \u2018one to watch\u2019 over the coming months.<\/p>\n Balde is an attack-minded left-back and can provide cover in the LWB position if needed. However, he has had numerous fitness problems in recent years.<\/p>\n The youngster, valued at around \u00a343m by Transfermarkt<\/span><\/a>, is a talented player and possesses high potential. Therefore, he might be a shrewd acquisition for Man Utd should they eventually opt to purchase him next year.<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBalde to Man Utd<\/h2>\n
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