In a stunning reversal that has sent shockwaves through the Camp Nou, Alejandro Balde has instructed his agent Jorge Mendes to find him a new club just days before the transfer window slams shut.
Alejandro Balde performs dramatic U-turn as Barcelona exit looms
The 22-year-old full-back spent the entire summer insisting he wanted to stay and fight for his place under Hansi Flick.
But Barcelona’s decision to sign Joao Cancelo on a permanent deal has fundamentally altered the landscape at the club.
The Portuguese international enjoys the coaching staff’s full confidence and can operate on both flanks, leaving Balde facing the prospect of a season spent largely on the bench.
Flick has done little to ease the defender’s concerns. When asked about Balde’s situation ahead of Barcelona’s clash with Elche, the German coach delivered a pointed message:
“Are you capable, do you have the conviction to compete for your position? That is what I want to see from every player”.
The manager also made it clear that no player has a guaranteed place in his starting lineup.
The La Masia graduate, who has made over 100 senior appearances for the Catalan giants and remains under contract until 2028, has now given Mendes the green light to explore options.
According to Sport, Benfica have already registered concrete interest and could table an offer around €20 million.
However, that figure falls well short of Barcelona’s valuation, with the club having previously set a price tag of approximately €40-45 million.
Aston Villa have also emerged as a potential destination, with Unai Emery’s side actively seeking a left-back. But the Premier League club would need to generate funds before making a serious move.
With only days remaining, Barcelona face a difficult decision. While they do not want to lose one of their most promising academy graduates on the cheap, Balde’s desire for regular playing time at a crucial stage of his career makes a departure increasingly likely.
