FC Barcelona have in Alejandro Balde (19) one of the most promising full-backs in Europe. The left-back is a regular starter for Xavi Hernández and the Catalan club are now very close to announcing his renewal until 2028 (his current contract expires in 2024) after reaching an agreement in principle with his agent, Jorge Mendes.
The contract renewal will come thanks to the player’s desire to remain linked to the Blaugrana because he has had no shortage of proposals to leave. One of the offers was from Manchester City, as MD reported on 17 July. Journalist Fabrizio Romano has added to the information published by MD about Balde and City on Twitch.
According to Romano, City tempted Balde in April, well aware of Barça’s financial problems. However, Barcelona had already initiated contact with Jorge Mendes, to discuss his renewal. Balde had no doubts about staying on, especially as he is a regular starter for Xavi and knows he is an important part of the team.
According to these reports, City even discussed the possibility of linking Balde’s operation with the departure of Joao Cancelo to the Catalan giants. The Portuguese wing-back has ended up arriving at the reigning Spanish champions on loan from City for one year but without an option to buy.
New Barcelona deal for Balde
Barça are hopeful that in the coming weeks, they will be able to finalise the renewal of Balde, which was agreed with the player and Jorge Mendes before the start of the team’s summer tour of the United States.
City’s interest in acquiring the left-back’s services is one of the reasons why Barça are still frustrated with the English club, according to sources at the club.
Kieran Quaile | GSFN
About Author
