Roma put Alejandro Balde deal on hold as Gian Piero Gasperini prioritises two forwards

Roma have halted their attempts to sign Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde during the upcoming winter transfer window after manager Gian Piero Gasperini asked the club to focus its recruitment budget on two new attacking players.

According to Mundo Deportivo, citing Italian media reports, Gasperini has told Roma’s hierarchy that strengthening the forward line must be the club’s priority in January. The decision has consequently placed the proposed move for Balde on hold, whether through a permanent transfer or a loan deal in which Roma would cover his salary.

Endrick, the Brazilian forward currently at Real Madrid, is reported to be top of Roma’s list of attacking targets. Atletico de Madrid player Ademola Lookman is also among the options being considered as the Italian club assesses ways to improve its forward line.

Mundo Deportivo reported in mid-October that Roma had been in contact with Balde’s representatives to explore the possibility of bringing him to the club in January. Its latest report, however, says the move has now stopped and may have been removed from Roma’s plans altogether.

Balde has lost some of Hans Flick’s trust at Barcelona this season. Joao Cancelo, Xavi Espart and Gerard Martin have all featured at left-back ahead of him during the campaign.

The Spain international has been given opportunities in recent matches because of injuries, but he has come off the bench on each occasion rather than starting.

Roma are now concentrating on adding attacking options in January, with Gasperini seeking players capable of strengthening the squad for the second half of the season.