Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde held talks with manager Hansi Flick regarding his future earlier on Tuesday, The Athletic have confirmed.
Balde interest
Balde is facing a fight to save his Barcelona career, with United patiently observing developments ahead of a potential opportunity to swoop in and offer a lifeline.
The Spaniard has long been mentioned as being on United’s radar but over the past few weeks, links have intensified. Having completed the signing of Joao Cancelo, Balde’s future is in serious doubt.
It’s believed that Barcelona are open to offers for the 22-year-old and United are leading the chase for his signature. Jorge Mendes has reportedly canvassed interest in the player, with Flick having recently acknowledged that the player is not assured of a place in his plans.
Balde was left out of Barcelona’s matchday squad for their La Liga season opener away to Elche. Teenager Xavi Espart started at left-back, with Cancelo later coming on as a substitute.
A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United’s preference would be to sign Balde on an initial loan deal. Barcelona are insistent on a permanent exit. More recently, Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed that Balde has made the decision to remain at the Camp Nou and fight for his place.
This has now been corroborated by The Athletic, who also reveal that Flick and Balde spoke on Tuesday.
Balde update
The Athletic say about this conversation, “Sources with knowledge of the situation say Balde was told he is seen as backup to Cancelo right now and that, in order to stay, he needs to show he is willing to work hard and improve.”
“He responded to Flick’s words by saying he accepted the challenge of fighting for his place, and asked to be given minutes on the pitch to make sure he can prove his worth.”
“People in Balde’s camp were surprised by the developments of the past week, but Barca sources say they asked Jorge Mendes, his representative, to seek offers for him at the start of the summer transfer window. At the time, the defender refused to entertain the idea of leaving.”
It’s understood that Barcelona will not force Balde out and if no suitable offers arrive, then they will keep him.
Balde made 42 appearances across all competitions for the Blaugrana last term.
Feature image Judit Cartiel via Getty Images
