Man Utd gifted green light to sign Barcelona left-back in January for £33m

Manchester United are looking to address their problems at left-back in January, with director of football Jason Wilcox facing increasing scrutiny over the club’s recruitment strategy.

The Red Devils spent £157m on new signings during the summer transfer window, but failed to strengthen in two positions that have subsequently become major concerns.

Now, with injuries continuing to disrupt Michael Carrick’s preparations and uncertainty surrounding the manager’s future, United have been presented with an opportunity to land a highly-rated European defender at an affordable price.

Jason Wilcox under pressure over Man Utd transfer decisions

Wilcox’s position at Old Trafford has come under scrutiny following United’s disappointing start to the season, with questions being asked about the club’s transfer business.

One source close to United believes Wilcox could lose his job if the club is forced into a third managerial change in as many seasons.

However, there is also sympathy within the hierarchy for the director of football, who was reportedly not responsible for determining United’s summer transfer budget.

The Red Devils spent heavily to bring Carlos Baleba, Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans to Manchester, but failed to recruit a new left-back or centre-forward.

Those decisions have become increasingly problematic, with Luke Shaw currently sidelined and Benjamin Sesko facing an extended absence through injury.

Patrick Dorgu has also been struggling with fitness problems, leaving Carrick short of natural options on the left side of his defence.

United are now hoping to address those weaknesses in January, and a fresh opportunity has emerged involving one of Europe’s most talented young full-backs.

Man Utd given green light to sign Alejandro Balde from Barcelona

REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, via Sport Witness, Manchester United are among several Premier League clubs to have held discussions over a potential deal for Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde.

The 23-year-old is looking to leave the Spanish champions in January after struggling for opportunities under Hansi Flick, having played just 124 minutes across five appearances this season.

Balde’s agent, Jorge Mendes, has been exploring possible destinations for his client, holding talks with United, Liverpool and Aston Villa over the terms required to secure his signature.

Barcelona are prepared to sanction a transfer for approximately €40m (£33m), while the Spain international is understood to favour a move to the Premier League, meaning there is a green light from all parties for whichever suitor offers the best deal.

Balde was previously regarded as one of the game’s most exciting young defenders, earning glowing praise from fellow La Masia graduate Xavi Simons.

The Spaniard’s pace, technical ability and experience at the highest level could make him an attractive long-term successor to Shaw.

Man Utd also interested in Rayan Aït-Nouri ahead of January

Balde is not the only left-back being considered by United, with Manchester City defender Rayan Aït-Nouri another potential target.

Sky Sports Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg revealed that the Algerian is open to leaving the Etihad Stadium and that personal terms would not be an obstacle to joining United.

The 25-year-old has struggled for regular opportunities since departing Wolves, where he established himself as an impressive attacking full-back.

However, securing an agreement with City could prove particularly challenging because of the rivalry between the two Manchester clubs.

That makes Balde’s availability an intriguing alternative, and United’s growing injury problems suggest strengthening at left-back should be a priority when the January window opens.