Premier League giants deemed Barcelona defender’s wages to be too ‘high’

Premier League giants deemed Barcelona defender’s wages to be too ‘high’ Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde has had a rough couple of days, especially as he was left out of the team’s trip to Elche by the manager. Hansi Flick’s decision to drop the player made it clear that his future at the club was uncertain, and news immediately emerged of a possible departure this summer. Manchester United, in particular, stood out with interest in the left-back and were even said to be readying an offer to submit to Barcelona for Balde’s acquisition. The turning point As confirmed by Fabrizio Romano in a recent report, Manchester United’s interest in Balde was real but eventually faded away owing to the player’s salary. Not Manchester-bound. (Photo by Paul Miller/Getty Images) The Red Devils simply saw the defender’s wages as ‘too high’, prompting them to exit the scene and consider other options. From Barcelona’s perspective, Manchester United’s departure removed the single-biggest interested party and did come as a blow.  Concurrently, however, other developments around Balde’s future arrived and the sale has been called off regardless, if recent updates are to be believed. Balde will stay Earlier today, El Chiringuito confirmed that Balde will not leave this summer and that the player will stay regardless of the club’s intent to push him out. Balde will stay at Barcelona. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images) Fabrizio Romano also adds that the player has now personally told Flick that he is ready to fight for his place and that he wishes to remain at the club this season. Only a very very lucrative offer might change his mind. Needless to say, this comes as a massive boost for Barcelona who have always asked only for the player’s commitment. Balde’s quality has never been in doubt, and it is only the player’s lack of competitive fire that Flick objected to. The player is expected to be in the squad to face Athletic Club and it remains to be seen if he is handed any minutes on the night. With competition from Joao Cancelo and even Xavi Espart, Balde will not have it easy. As Flick mentioned, the player’s development in recent years has not quite been up to the mark, and it is critical that Balde finds a way to move past that stagnation. The competition, after all, is unforgiving.