Alejandro Balde still wants to stay at Barcelona despite renewed Manchester United interest in the 22-year-old left-back, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The Spanish outlet reports that Balde remains firm in his intention to stay at Barcelona and believes he can still play an important role in the team. That stance complicates any United move, even with the Red Devils looking at the left-back position this summer.

Barcelona weighing contingency plans

Balde has just come through his fifth season in Barcelona’s first team, making 42 appearances as the club won LaLiga for the third time in four campaigns. That contribution makes his situation more nuanced than a straightforward exit story.

Alejandro Balde posing in the official FC Barcelona kit.

Barcelona were previously reported to be willing to listen to offers for the full-back, before later reports suggested he was viewed as an essential part of the project, even if not yet the finished article. According to Marca, Barcelona could move for Chelsea and Spain full-back Marc Cucurella should Balde depart this summer, indicating the club is preparing for that possibility even as Balde prioritises staying.

Where does this leave United?

United have been exploring the left-back market and have made contact with representatives of Newcastle’s Lewis Hall. Balde’s situation adds another layer to that search rather than resolving it.

Lewis Hall signs his contract upon joining Newcastle United.

Luke Shaw and Diego Leon, who signed during last summer’s transfer window, are among United’s options at left-back while the club assesses whether a move for Balde is realistic.

It remains to be seen whether Balde’s preference to stay holds firm, or whether Barcelona’s contingency planning around Cucurella eventually changes the situation. A bid from Old Trafford has yet to materialise.

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