Alejandro Balde rethinks Barcelona future after Joao Cancelo arrival

Alejandro Balde has decided to leave Barcelona during the summer transfer window after a significant change in his situation over the past 10 days. The Spain left-back believes his chances of regular first-team football have declined following Joao Cancelo’s arrival and the emergence of Xavi Espart in Hansi Flick’s plans.

Until recently, Balde had been inclined to remain at Barcelona despite transfer interest and speculation linking him with a move away. His priority was to stay at the club and compete for his place in Flick’s starting XI.

The 21-year-old understood that his role would not be guaranteed this season, but he was prepared to fight for his position. That outlook changed after Barcelona completed the signing of Cancelo in recent days.

Barcelona’s sporting director had been aware that Cancelo could join the club, but the completion of the deal has altered Balde’s position within the squad. It has become increasingly clear to the defender that competition for the left-back role will be tougher than he had anticipated.

Balde’s concerns increased when Xavi Espart started against Elche. Flick then left Balde out of the squad for the match, a decision the player viewed as a decisive turning point in his future at Barcelona.

Following a series of discussions over the past few hours, Balde has settled on his position and will now seek a new club before the transfer window closes. His agent, Jorge Mendes, has begun working with Barcelona’s football director Deco to find a suitable destination.

Several European clubs are interested in the defender, although the limited time remaining in the market could make a deal difficult. Only one week remains before the transfer window shuts, and most clubs have already finalised their squads for the new season.

Manchester United remains the leading option for Balde. However, the Premier League club’s position has changed after its latest signings. United is no longer considering a permanent move for the player and would prefer to take him on loan.

Barcelona’s preference has been to sell Balde outright, allowing the club to secure a permanent transfer fee. With the deadline approaching, though, the Catalan club could accept a loan arrangement if it does not receive a suitable offer before the market closes.

Other clubs have also made proposals for the player, but they are not considered as attractive as the possibility of joining Manchester United. Mendes and Deco are continuing to work on a solution, with Balde’s future potentially remaining unresolved until the final days of the transfer window.