United explored a deal for Balde during the summer transfer window, but the two clubs failed to find an agreement. Balde ultimately chose to remain at Barcelona and fight for his place.
That decision could be revisited within months.
Recent developments at Camp Nou have made Balde’s situation considerably more complicated. The emergence of teenage academy product Xavi Espart, combined with the arrival of João Cancelo, has intensified competition for the left-back position. Reports now indicate that both players are ahead of Balde in Flick’s current thinking.
United Have Not Given Up on Balde
Manchester United’s interest in Balde is not new.
The Premier League club were monitoring the 22-year-old throughout the summer as they looked for another option at left-back. United’s preference was reportedly for a loan structure with an option to buy, while Barcelona wanted a permanent transfer, contributing to the breakdown in negotiations.
Balde then decided to stay and compete for his position.
However, that calculation could change if his lack of minutes continues.
The situation at Barcelona
BARCELONA LEFT-BACK BATTLE │ ┌──────────────┼──────────────┐ ▼ ▼ ▼ Xavi Espart João Cancelo Alejandro Balde │ │ │ Rising star Experienced Fighting for impressing competition his place └──────────────┬──────────────┘ ▼ Balde's January decision │ ▼ Manchester UnitedEspart has emerged as one of the surprise stories of Barcelona's opening weeks. The 19-year-old has impressed Flick and has even been used at left-back despite being developed primarily as a midfielder.
Cancelo's presence makes the competition even tougher.
That leaves Balde needing to force his way back into the manager's plans over the next few months.
Balde Has Already Faced a Major Setback
Balde was left out of Barcelona's squad for the opening league game against Elche, although Flick explained that the defender was not fully prepared at the time.
The situation subsequently improved, with Balde holding talks with Flick and committing himself to fighting for his place.
But his position remains under scrutiny.
Recent reports have again highlighted the fact that Balde has struggled to establish himself as Flick's clear first-choice option, with Espart's emergence adding an unexpected complication.
Why January Could Be Different
The key factor will be playing time.
If Balde starts receiving regular minutes, there may be little reason for him to push for an exit. But if Espart and Cancelo continue to receive preference, the defender could reconsider his decision to stay.
That would give United another opportunity.
The club have been searching for additional competition at left-back, and Balde's profile remains attractive because of his pace, attacking ability and experience at the highest level despite his age.
United could therefore return to the negotiating table with Barcelona once the January window opens.
A Transfer Story to Watch
For now, there is no completed January agreement between Manchester United and Balde.
Instead, the situation is one to monitor.
Balde has already shown that he is willing to stay and fight for his place. But if Flick continues to look elsewhere, the Barcelona defender could eventually decide that regular football is more important than remaining at Camp Nou.
And if that happens, Manchester United appear ready to test Barcelona's resolve again.
The summer pursuit may have failed — but the Balde story could only have been delayed.
