Manchester United are reportedly preparing a €30 million (£25 million) offer for Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde and are also lining up a bid for Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, according to reports in Spain. The moves come just days after the club confirmed the signing of Carlos Baleba from Brighton.
Balde emerges as late left-back target
A left-back has been on United's radar throughout the summer transfer window, with Balde emerging as a serious option late in the window. Reports in Spain claim the 22-year-old is prepared to leave Barcelona this summer, having been left unconvinced by his long-term prospects under head coach Hansi Flick.
Balde's agent, Jorge Mendes, has held talks with United officials, who would prefer to negotiate a season-long loan deal with an option to make the move permanent. Barcelona, however, would prefer a permanent deal.
According to Spanish radio show El Larguero, United are now preparing an offer worth €30 million (£25 million) for the La Masia youth product. That offer could be enough to tempt the Spanish champions into business.
Camavinga bid readied amid midfield rebuild
United's business in Spain might not end with Balde, as the report also claims a bid for Real Madrid star Camavinga is now being readied. The French international has faced questions over his role under head coach Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid this summer.
A midfield rebuild at Old Trafford looked to have been completed with the arrival of Baleba, a move that was confirmed by the club on Wednesday. He joins Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos as the new recruits in midfield. Baleba's arrival in Manchester appeared to signal the end of United's recruitment drive in midfield, but interest in Camavinga remains, according to the report.
Balde's competition and Camavinga's stance
Balde started 31 matches in all competitions last season, but Barcelona signed Joao Cancelo on a free transfer this summer. He also faces competition from Xavi Espart, whom Flick has turned to at left-back.
Amid uncertainty over his future throughout the summer, reports in Spain have claimed Camavinga is eager to stay at Real Madrid and prove his worth. The club has not indicated a willingness to sell, but United's interest persists as the transfer deadline approaches.
