Manchester United are considering signing Alejandro Balde, the talented Barcelona left back who has fallen out of favour.

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The long international break has meant an early return for transfer rumours, and today we’re hearing some chat about what Man U might do as they look for a new left back option.

TeamTalk claim that Barcelona are willing to let Alejandro Balde go – and importantly they would consider a deal in January. That would allow Man U to strengthen immediately in a position where they’d like to find someone with the dynamic attacking energy of Balde.

Of course it’s not a sure fire hit – for all his talent, Balde has ended up losing his starting place for Hansi Flick. There’s a reason Barca are willing to sanction his exit.

Man U see potential bargain in underused left back

Alejandro Balde playing for Barcelona. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

But the 22 year old was a target for Man U in the summer and is clearly still on their radar. Barcelona, for their part, are happy to cash in and sign a replacement.

The report claims that Man U scouts see the underutilised Balde as a player with a much higher ceiling than we’ve seen so far. Given his situation at Barcelona, he could be a real bargain.

The club have “been spoken to about a potential January loan deal,” and there’s no doubt that the youngster is on their list of potential options when the window reopens. A loan feels like a low-risk way to see what the youngster is all about.

Barcelona have also apparently contacted the likes of Sunderland, Everton and Fulham as they look to move the defender on and free up some spending money.