Manchester United entered the summer transfer window knowing their left-back options needed strengthening, but the club ultimately chose not to make any changes at the position. Although adding another player was considered a priority, United were unwilling to commit to a permanent deal that might limit their flexibility in future transfer windows.

Lewis Hall was identified as the leading candidate. United held talks with Newcastle United about a possible transfer, but Newcastle made it clear the defender was not available for sale. Despite that setback, Hall remains high on United’s shortlist, and the club could try to bring him to Old Trafford when the market reopens next summer.

United also looked at Racing Santander’s Jorge Salinas as an alternative. The defender reportedly had a £13.7 million release clause, which would have allowed United to complete a permanent deal relatively straightforwardly. However, the club opted not to activate the clause and instead turned its attention to bringing in a left-back on loan.

Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde was subsequently considered as one such option. United were understood to have explored a temporary move through Balde’s representative, Jorge Mendes. The proposal ultimately failed to progress, as Barcelona was unwilling to let the defender leave on loan and Balde preferred to continue his career at Camp Nou.

Despite reports at the time indicating that Hansi Flick wanted Balde to stay at Barcelona, the Spanish left-back has seemingly dropped down the pecking order at the Camp Nou, with both Joao Cancelo and 19-year-old Xavi Espart being Flick's preferred left-back options so far this season.

Now, as reported by TEAMtalk, Barcelona are ready to loan out the 22-year-old in January, with Manchester United among the clubs interested in signing the out-of-favour left-back.

The outlet reports that Balde's camp and intermediaries are already exploring options outside the Catalan club, with sources confirming that Barcelona have given the defender permission to explore a move elsewhere.

The outlet also understands that Barcelona are considering bringing in another left-back in 2027, a development that could spell the end of Alejandro Balde's time at Barcelona.

Manchester United aren't alone in their pursuit, as Liverpool, Sunderland, Everton, and Fulham have reportedly been contacted by intermediaries.

Manchester United's left-back options include 31-year-old Luke Shaw, who has been riddled with injuries since joining United; 19-year-old Harry Amass, who looks promising but may not be ready for regular first-team football just yet; and Patrick Dorgu, who may develop into more of a left-winger.

It was clear that United desperately needed left-back reinforcements in the summer, and now they're left dealing with the consequences of not signing anyone, with Luke Shaw already missing two games this season.

With United's fixture schedule set to get even more congested after this international break, Carrick needs squad depth, and the January window offers the perfect opportunity to secure Balde on loan.

While there will be concerns about his lack of football this season, United would sign the 22-year-old based on his talent rather than his form, with the Spaniard touted as a player with a very high ceiling.