Jaissle: “No chance” for United to sign Hall this summer

“No chance. No chance.” That was Matthias Jaissle’s immediate response when asked by former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel whether Newcastle would consider selling Lewis Hall this summer.

The remark came during Jaissle’s post-match press briefing following Newcastle’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool at St James’ Park yesterday evening.

Jaissle’s firm stance on Hall

Schmeichel, speaking on behalf of United, had opened the exchange by saying: “We (United) are looking at signing your left-back (Hall).”

Jaissle chuckled before delivering his unequivocal reply — a phrase he repeated for emphasis.

According to reports, INEOS — Newcastle’s ownership group — has held the same position since the start of the transfer window: Hall is considered entirely off-limits.

That assessment predates the exits of Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes — and has only hardened in light of those high-profile departures.

Hall conceded a penalty during the Liverpool match that led directly to the visitors’ equalising goal.

Despite speculation linking him with a move to Old Trafford, Hall and his family are lifelong Newcastle supporters — making any forced departure, akin to Alexander Isak’s last summer, highly unlikely.

United pivot to Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde

With Hall ruled out, Manchester United are now redirecting their defensive recruitment efforts ahead of the summer transfer deadline.

Recent reports indicate intensified interest in 22-year-old Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde.

Balde was omitted from Barcelona’s season opener against Elche last night, amid growing uncertainty over his status at Camp Nou.

Though Balde is said to want to remain at Barcelona, his influence over a potential sale would be limited should the club decide to capitalise on existing interest.

Under Hansi Flick, Balde currently ranks behind both Gerard Martin and Joao Cancelo in the left-back hierarchy — whereas at United, he would compete directly with Luke Shaw for the starting role under interim manager Michael Carrick.