Alejandro Balde looks set to become one of the biggest names on the move in the final days of the summer window, with Manchester United circling the Barcelona left-back.
Balde has returned to group training as normal, yet he was left out of the squad for the opening-day clash with Elche. That absence only fuelled the speculation, especially with no clarity over his role this season.
United lead the chase. The English club need a new left-back, and officials at Old Trafford reckon Balde fits the profile exactly.
According to the Spanish newspaper "Mundo Deportivo", citing the network "ESPN", Manchester United would prefer a loan with an option to buy rather than paying the full fee for a permanent deal right now.
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That proposal clashes with Barcelona's stance. The Catalans want a permanent sale if Balde leaves, banking a fee they can reinvest in the squad during the current window.
Barcelona have no problem with letting him go, but they want a suitable return. The plan is to use the proceeds to sign a new left-back or bolster the attack before the window shuts.
Talks over his future rumble on. Jorge Mendes, Balde's agent, is in direct contact with officials at both clubs, trying to bridge the gap and push the negotiations along.
Life at Barcelona has grown complicated for Balde. The arrival of Joao Cancelo and the decision to hand Gerard Martin the left-back berth against Elche could squeeze his minutes this season.
Every door remains open as deadline nears, whether Balde stays put or heads to Manchester United. Getting the deal done, though, hinges on whether the two clubs can agree on the shape of the move and its price.