Barcelona defender will not leave the club this summer despite strong links

Barcelona defender will not leave the club this summer despite strong links Alejandro Balde’s future has been up in the air in recent days, and triggered much discourse on it being bad business by Barcelona. After all, the player is crucial for the squad depth, and while pushing for his departure may be understandable, doing so at this point in the transfer window was surprising. Word had it that Hansi Flick was pushing for the player’s departure owing to a lack of commitment, and Manchester United were reported to be interested in his signing. Now, however, the saga has taken a turn. Balde will stay As reported by El Chiringuito in an exclusive update, the talented left-back will stay in Barcelona as matters stand and will not leave, contrary to reports. It’s not over yet. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images) With just under a week remaining on the summer transfer window, there will thus be no drastic change in personnel for Hansi Flick at left-back and the La Masia graduate will stay and fight with Joao Cancelo and Xavi Espart for his spot. What this also means, however, is that Barcelona are unlikely to go for another left-back in the summer for they will not have any new space created on the roster. Flick’s words on Balde Hansi Flick left Balde out of his squad for the team’s clash against Elche at the weekend and made it clear that the player had to show more commitment. Flick will count on Balde. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images) The player, however, is back in Barcelona’s squad for the clash against Athletic Club at the Spotify Camp Nou and Flick even provided an update on his situation in the pre-game press conference . “He’s part of the squad. Whether he plays or not, we’ll decide that tomorrow. I’ve spoken to him; he must be committed to us.” “He’s very young and has a lot of potential. He’s improved, but he can improve further. He carries the Barça colours in his heart,”  he added. What his words make clear is that the player will have another chance to prove his worth. However, it will not be easy given the competition provided by Cancelo. All signs point to Cancelo starting tomorrow night for Barcelona, and Balde will have to make the most of any minutes handed his way. After all, Xavi Espart also delivered a great performance in the previous game and has made a strong case for himself.