Man Utd handed boost in pursuit of Barcelona left-back Balde — Manchester United have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde, according to reports. The 23-year-old has emerged as a target for the Old Trafford club, and the latest development is said to have improved their chances of securing his signature.
The news comes amid ongoing uncertainty over the managerial situation at United, with the club reportedly not convinced that Eddie Howe is the right man to replace Michael Carrick. Carrick, who is currently in charge, has been the subject of speculation regarding his long-term future, and Howe, the Bournemouth manager, has been linked with the role. However, according to the Independent, United are not persuaded that Howe is the ideal successor.
Balde, a Spain international, has established himself as a key player for Barcelona, but the Catalan club’s financial situation could make a transfer feasible. United’s interest in the left-back signals their intention to strengthen the defensive department, and the reported boost could accelerate their efforts to bring him to the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are planning to offer a smoother pathway to first-team football for 16-year-old JJ Gabriel than he would have had at Manchester United, as reported by Marca. The young talent’s future remains a topic of interest, with Madrid seemingly positioning themselves to lure him away from Old Trafford.
In other news, Unai Emery has expressed his belief that Aston Villa are capable of winning the Champions League. The Villa boss’s confidence comes as his side continues to impress, and he sees no reason why they cannot compete for Europe’s top prize, according to Birmingham Live.
Newcastle are tracking Middlesbrough striker Will Lankshear after his impressive start to the season in the Championship. The 20-year-old has caught the eye with his goal-scoring exploits, and the Magpies are reportedly monitoring his progress, per Talksport.
Werder Bremen are keen to turn Niclas Fullkrug’s loan move from West Ham into a permanent deal, according to Sky Germany. The German striker has been on loan at the Bundesliga club, and they are now looking to secure his services on a long-term basis.
Inter Milan are interested in signing Crystal Palace defender Chris Richards, as reported by Tuttomercato. The Serie A giants are said to be admirers of the American international, and a move could materialise in the near future.
These stories and more feature in the latest transfer round-up, with Manchester United’s pursuit of Balde and their managerial considerations dominating the headlines.
