Man United in dreamland as Alejandro Balde transfer stance becomes clear

Manchester United have reportedly been contacted regarding a potential January loan deal for Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde. Barcelona have shifted their stance and are now open to loaning out the 22-year-old defender, who has fallen down the pecking order and is yet to start a match this season. United's recruitment department believes Balde has significant potential and views a loan move as an attractive way to assess him in English football.

United face competition for the Spanish defender, as intermediaries have also offered Balde to Premier League rivals Liverpool. Any temporary arrangement is expected to include a purchase option or obligation. Should a deal for Balde not materialize, Manchester United are also considering alternative options such as David Raum, while reportedly preparing new contracts for current left-backs Luke Shaw and Harry Amass.