Manchester United could face competition from Roma in their pursuit of Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde, with the Italian club reportedly monitoring the defender ahead of the January transfer window.

United considered signing Balde during the summer transfer period. According to reports, the Premier League side proposed bringing the 23-year-old to Old Trafford on a season-long loan, but Barcelona were interested in selling him permanently. The clubs failed to reach an agreement, leaving the Spanish international at Camp Nou.

Balde has reportedly struggled to secure regular first-team opportunities this season, making only brief appearances against Racing Santander and Paris Saint-Germain. His limited involvement has fuelled speculation about his future, potentially creating an opportunity for interested clubs to revisit his situation when the transfer window reopens.

Roma are understood to be assessing their options at left wing-back as they consider strengthening that area of their squad. The Italian side have used Wesley Franca in the position this season, although his natural preference for his right foot could make a left-footed alternative such as Balde an appealing option.

The Barcelona defender could offer Roma a different balance on the left flank, particularly given his experience operating in an attacking role while also contributing defensively. However, any potential move would depend on Barcelona’s willingness to reconsider their position and the terms available to interested clubs.

United could therefore encounter additional competition if Roma decide to turn their reported interest into a formal approach when the January window opens on January 1.

Despite his age, Balde has already accumulated considerable experience at the highest level. Since making his breakthrough into Barcelona’s senior team in September 2021, he has made 170 appearances, scoring three goals and registering 21 assists. Those figures underline his contribution from the left side, although his current lack of regular playing time has raised questions about his longer-term prospects at the club.

Balde is not the only left-back linked with United. Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall is reportedly a leading target as the Manchester club look to address a position they failed to strengthen during the summer.

Hall signed a new five-year contract with Newcastle in September, but reports indicate that United continue to monitor his situation. The England international is reportedly valued at approximately €58.9 million, equivalent to £50 million.

Newcastle initially signed Hall from Chelsea in 2023 on a season-long loan agreement that included an obligation to make the transfer permanent. Since joining the Magpies, he has made 111 appearances, contributing four goals and nine assists. He was also part of the Newcastle team that won the Carabao Cup in March 2025.

United’s interest in multiple left-backs comes as manager Michael Carrick faces pressure to improve the team’s results following a difficult spell. The club entered their Bournemouth fixture seeking only their third victory of the campaign, increasing the importance of finding solutions both on and off the pitch.

Roma, meanwhile, have reportedly lost only once in their opening 11 matches, giving them an encouraging start to the season. Their form could strengthen their appeal to potential recruits, making them a possible competitor for Balde if they decide to pursue the Barcelona defender.