Manchester United monitor Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde amid Lewis Hall pursuit

Manchester United are monitoring Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde as an alternative left-back option if their primary pursuit of Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall proves unsuccessful.

INEOS and manager Michael Carrick are actively seeking a long-term successor to 31-year-old Luke Shaw ahead of the club’s impending return to the Champions League.

Hall remains the priority for the Old Trafford hierarchy following his impressive developmental spell at St James’ Park.

However, the Red Devils are aware that negotiating with Newcastle could prove difficult if the Tyneside outfit demand an excessive fee for the 21-year-old Englishman.

Barcelona alternative emerges

Should a deal for their top domestic target stall, United have identified the highly-rated Spanish international as a viable backup plan.

The 22-year-old La Masia graduate firmly established himself in the Blaugrana starting lineup last season, making 42 appearances across all competitions and registering three assists.

His future in Catalonia could become unexpectedly uncertain if Barcelona successfully pursue a deal for 19-year-old Racing Santander prospect Jorge Salinas.

A potential move for the dynamic full-back could be aided by existing relationships and recent business between the two heavyweights.

Strategic squad planning

Marcus Rashford recently spent a season on loan at Camp Nou, forming a strong bond with the young defender before ultimately deciding to remain in Manchester.

Despite this European connection, the Premier League giants are expected to prioritise domestic experience.

Capturing a young, proven English talent like Hall is seen as the ideal scenario to reliably solidify the left flank for the next decade.