Barcelona consider January sale of Alejandro Balde as Premier League clubs show interest

Barcelona are prepared to consider offers for Alejandro Balde in January as they look to raise funds for a new defender, with Manchester United and Chelsea among the clubs monitoring the left-back.

The Spanish club have begun planning for the winter transfer window and are seeking a centre-back or a defender capable of operating in several positions. Hansi Flick and the sporting department want to strengthen the defence for the second half of the season, but a departure may be needed before Barcelona can make their move.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Barcelona would not oppose Balde leaving permanently after his role diminished under Flick. The 21-year-old has also been unable to take advantage of injuries within the squad to secure more regular first-team football.

Balde came close to leaving Barcelona during the summer but chose to remain at the club in the hope of reclaiming his place. With his involvement continuing to be limited, however, the possibility of a departure has increased.

Barcelona are seeking at least 40m euros for the player. They believe his age and the demand for left-backs in the transfer market justify that valuation.

The club have told Balde’s agent, Jorge Mendes, that a permanent transfer is their preferred outcome. Barcelona would consider a loan only if it included an obligation for the borrowing club to buy him at the end of the season.

Mendes is currently assessing potential destinations after making contact with clubs in Italy, England and Germany. None of those discussions has yet resulted in a formal offer.

Barcelona are waiting for Balde to agree to leave, believing that an early decision from the player would allow negotiations to move faster and give the club greater clarity over its plans for the winter window.

In Italy, Juventus and Roma have emerged as interested parties. Their current preference appears to be a loan deal, though neither has shown a clear willingness to meet Barcelona’s asking price with a permanent transfer. Balde’s wages could also prove difficult for the Italian clubs to accommodate.

Premier League clubs may be better placed to satisfy Barcelona’s financial demands. Manchester United and Chelsea have both shown interest in the defender’s situation.

Manchester United are looking for solutions at left-back because of the fitness problems experienced by Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu. Chelsea, meanwhile, are considering strengthening the left side after changes in that position.

Barcelona hope a deal involving Balde would provide the financial resources to sign a new defender. It would also give Flick more options in the back line and help the club secure Jules Kounde’s continued place in its defensive plans.