Liverpool urged to consider Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde as January move emerges

Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy believes Alejandro Balde has the qualities to solve the club’s ongoing concerns at left-back, as the Barcelona defender attracts interest from several Premier League clubs.

Balde’s role at Barcelona has diminished under manager Hansi Flick, prompting speculation that the Spain international could leave during the January transfer window. According to Sport, Liverpool are among the clubs monitoring his situation closely.

Liverpool already have Ronald Araujo on loan from Barcelona, but Murphy has publicly recommended that his former club also consider signing Balde. He believes the 22-year-old would be well suited to the demands of playing for a leading Premier League side.

“ I think Balde could be a great player for Liverpool because he has exceptional talent, as well as experience of playing for a big club and dealing with the pressure that comes with it,” Murphy told Betarades. “He is a good player.”

Murphy also discussed Liverpool’s difficulties at left-back, despite the arrival of Milos Kerkez. Kerkez is finding it difficult to establish himself in the side managed by Andoni Iraola, with doubts over the position continuing.

“I think Liverpool will look for a left-back, although it is complicated because I do not know Kerkez personally,” Murphy said. “I know he works very hard, and you can see that through his energy on the pitch. It is also clear that he cares about the team.”

For Murphy, Balde’s experience with Barcelona is a significant advantage over other potential targets. The former Liverpool player said the club’s priority should be recruiting someone whose ability to cope with pressure at a major club is not in doubt.

“The most important thing is to sign a player who does not make you question whether he can handle the pressure that comes with playing for a big club,” he added.

Balde’s future is attracting increasing attention in England. Manchester United and Manchester City have also been linked with the defender, while Liverpool continue to be mentioned among his possible destinations.

The player’s representatives, led by Jorge Mendes, are exploring different options for January. A loan move until the end of the season is currently the preferred outcome.

Roma have also considered a move for Balde. However, according to Il Messaggero, manager Gian Piero Gasperini has decided that strengthening the attack should take priority. Juventus and Monaco are also included among the clubs interested in the Barcelona defender.

Barcelona will therefore have to decide how to handle Balde’s situation, with the possibility of his departure growing ahead of the next transfer window. Murphy’s backing adds to the support for a move to England, with the former Liverpool player convinced that the Spain international would fit the club.