Manchester United reassess left-back options as Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde fades from contention

Manchester United are actively examining alternatives for their left-back position, with Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde no longer viewed as a realistic option because of his ongoing injury problems.

The club have not abandoned their interest in Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall, who was identified as their preferred target earlier in the transfer window. However, United accept they may need to pursue another player during the final weeks of the summer window because Newcastle have shown no sign of being willing to sanction Hall’s departure.

A new left-back has been set as one of Manchester United’s main priorities this summer, after the club first focused on strengthening their midfield. Hall remains highly regarded at Old Trafford and, according to TeamTalk, the England international would be open to the move.

Newcastle’s position means United’s interest in Hall is currently on hold. The club could revisit the situation after the summer, but sporting director Jason Wilcox and his recruitment team are now actively assessing other possibilities.

One of the leading names under consideration is RB Leipzig defender David Raum. TeamTalk reported earlier this year that the Germany international is admired by Manchester United, and his contractual situation is viewed as particularly attractive.

Raum, 28, has less than 12 months remaining on his current deal. Although his contract reportedly contains a release clause worth about £34m, intermediaries believe a transfer could be negotiated for less than £30m if he decides not to extend his stay with RB Leipzig.

The same report says Raum has previously spoken with Manchester United. He would also welcome the prospect of moving to Old Trafford, where he could compete with Luke Shaw for a place in the starting XI.

Balde had been assessed alongside Hall and Nathaniel Brown earlier in United’s recruitment process. However, his continuing fitness concerns have changed the club’s view of the Barcelona defender.

“Manchester United assessed Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde alongside Hall and Nathaniel Brown earlier in the recruitment process, but ongoing injury issues mean the club do not currently view the Barcelona star as a realistic option,” TeamTalk said.

United are also monitoring a number of younger players. Those under consideration include Club Brugge’s Joaquin Seys, Bournemouth defender Adrien Truffert and young Spanish player Jorge Salinas of Racing Santander.

The recruitment department therefore has a substantial list of potential alternatives, even though Hall remains among the club’s options.

“The priority now is to find a left-back who can strengthen Michael Carrick’s squad without forcing United into an over-priced deal, with Raum’s contract situation making him one of the most interesting options,” the report added.

For now, Hall remains a Newcastle player and Manchester United are prepared for the possibility that they may have to wait before deciding whether to renew their pursuit. In the meantime, Wilcox and his recruitment staff are studying the alternatives ahead of the final weeks of the transfer window.