Manchester United have been told reported target Alejandro Balde is no longer “reluctant” to leave Barcelona in January.

The Red Devils continue to be loosely linked with Balde, who has found himself on the periphery at Barcelona this season.

Spain international Balde is yet to make a start for the La Liga giants this term, clocking up just 116 minutes of football so far.

The Athletic understands United pursued a loan deal for Balde in the summer but Barcelona were only interested in a permanent sale.

Various publications claimed the 23-year-old academy graduate wanted to stay and fight for his place at Camp Nou as well.

However, transfer reporter Matteo Moretto claims Balde is now contemplating a January exit given his current struggles at Barcelona.

In quotes carried by SPORT, Moretto said: “[Balde] is beginning to be much more open to considering an exit; the same goes for his camp, who no longer seem so reluctant to explore a change of scenery.”

United missed out on signing a left-back in the summer

It remains to be seen whether United are willing to renew their interest in Balde, who is reportedly valued at around €40million (£33.3m).

The Red Devils were originally interested in Balde as they looked to strengthen at left-back in the summer transfer window.

However, United ultimately missed out on signing a left-sided full-back - something which has come back to bite them this season.

The 20-time league champions have won just two of their 13 games this season, losing four of their last five matches in all competitions.

United have deployed Luke Shaw, Diogo Dalot, Noussair Mazraoui and Ayden Heaven at left-back this season but all of them have struggled.

In addition to Balde, United continue to be linked with other left-backs including Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall, Bournemouth's Adrien Truffert and Nottingham Forest's Neco Williams.

Regarded as one of the best left-backs in the Premier League, England international Hall is believed to be United's top target heading into next summer's transfer window.

United are looking to secure their first win since early September when they play host to Roma in the Champions League this evening.

The Serie A giants have also been credited with an interest in Balde, who will hope to feature when Barcelona entertain Aston Villa tonight.