Aston Villa have joined Manchester United in the race to sign Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde.
The reigning La Liga champions now prepared to consider Alejandro Balde’s departure before the 2026 summer transfer window closes.
Manchester United have recently stepped up their interest in the 22-year-old, contacting his agent Jorge Mendes to explore the conditions required to complete a deal. However, Michael Carrick’s side are not alone. Aston Villa and Benfica are also monitoring Balde as uncertainty surrounding his Barcelona future intensifies.
Barcelona open door to Balde departure
Balde initially wanted to remain at Camp Nou and fight for his position, but the situation has changed significantly during the closing stages of the window. Barcelona have undergone considerable squad restructuring, and Hansi Flick has stopped short of guaranteeing the Spain international a prominent role.
Speaking ahead of Barcelona’s clash with Elche, Flick acknowledged Balde’s quality but stressed that players must demonstrate their determination to fight for their places. According to Sport via Sport Witness, Balde and his representatives now accept that his opportunities could be limited and have authorised Mendes to explore potential destinations.
Barcelona had previously valued their academy graduate at around €40-45 million, although there is recognition that attracting an offer at that level could prove difficult. Benfica have reportedly offered approximately €20 million. Barcelona could potentially consider a lower guaranteed fee if additional clauses or future financial benefits are incorporated into the agreement.
Aston Villa enter the race against Manchester United
Aston Villa have now made an approach as they assess their options at left-back, although their financial position could complicate negotiations. Manchester United appear to have established stronger contact through Mendes and could therefore be better positioned should Barcelona decide to accelerate negotiations.
Balde’s availability nevertheless represents an intriguing late-market opportunity. Still only 22, the Spaniard has significant experience at Barcelona and possesses the pace and attacking qualities required from a modern Premier League full-back.
Balde becoming genuinely available changes this situation considerably as Manchester United’s existing discussions with Mendes could give them an advantage, but Villa’s emergence provides Barcelona with another potential negotiating partner. The biggest question is price. Barcelona’s original €40-45 million valuation appears ambitious given Balde’s reduced role, and interested clubs may prefer to wait for that figure to fall.
If the asking price becomes more reasonable, competition could increase quickly. For Manchester United and Aston Villa, this may develop into one of the more interesting opportunities of the final days of the summer transfer window.
