Liverpool consider January move for Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde

Alejandro Balde’s lack of playing time at Barcelona has put the left-back on the radar of Liverpool, with a possible move to the Premier League emerging as an option for the January transfer window.

Balde remains part of head coach Hansi Flick’s matchday squads, but he has not been given minutes on the pitch. Although he is regarded as an important player at Barcelona, Flick currently prefers Xavi Espart or Joao Cancelo in the position.

That has left Balde as the third-choice left-back at the Catalan club and created uncertainty over his future. The 2028 expiry date on his contract and a €1bn release clause underline his value to Barcelona, but his estimated market value is around €40m.

According to Sport, Balde was linked with major clubs including Manchester United and Inter Milan during the summer. In recent hours, Liverpool have also been reported as potential suitors for the player.

Liverpool’s Spanish manager, Andoni Iraola, is understood to view a move for Balde as an appealing possibility, particularly if the transfer represents a favourable opportunity in the market. Balde’s qualities could also suit the demands of the Premier League.

The relationship between Liverpool and Barcelona is reported to be a friendly one, as illustrated by the quick loan move that took Ronald Araujo to Anfield.

The Uruguay defender has already made an impression in England, particularly in the Champions League. He produced an outstanding display against Atletico Madrid, during which he provided an assist with a backheel.

For now, Balde’s only option is to continue working hard in training and wait for another opportunity from Flick. His current situation means the coming weeks could be important as he attempts to regain a regular role in the Barcelona team.

Decisions are expected to be made in January. At that point, the England top flight could offer Balde a suitable setting in which to revive his career and play a more significant part than he currently has at Barcelona.

His agent, Jorge Mendes, may look for a solution that allows the defender to continue performing at his best at a club where he can secure the role he has lost at Barcelona.