Barcelona could use homegrown star’s transfer to address Flick’s centre-back demands in January

Barcelona could use homegrown star’s transfer to address Flick’s centre-back demands in January Alejandro Balde’s place in Barcelona’s plans could become a major talking point when the January transfer window opens, with the left-back facing an increasingly uncertain role under Hansi Flick.  According to Mundo Deportivo , the homegrown star’s situation is one to monitor as Barça assess their squad once their immediate recruitment plans are settled. The 22-year-old chose to remain at Barcelona last summer despite interest from Manchester United and other potential opportunities, determined to fight for his place.  However, his lack of involvement at the start of the campaign has raised questions over whether that decision will remain unchanged if his minutes do not improve. United could return if Balde remains on the sidelines Balde entered the season hoping to re-establish himself as a regular starter, but Flick has barely used him.  Barcelona have played eight matches so far, and the academy graduate was left out of the squad for the opening league fixture.  In fact, his only appearance came when he played 12 minutes against Racing Santander, with the result already beyond doubt. Balde decided not to leave Barcelona last summer. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) That limited role represents a significant change for a player who was previously an important part of Barcelona’s plans at left-back.  Having rejected the chance to leave in the summer, Balde now faces a decision if his position in the pecking order fails to improve. Notably, Man United were among the clubs keen on signing him before the season began, and while there is no guarantee that their interest will translate into a January move, Barcelona may have to prepare for renewed enquiries if the defender considers his options. Espart and Cancelo complicate Balde’s position Competition for places has become another concern for Balde.  Joao Cancelo returned to Barcelona after his previous loan spell and joined permanently following his departure from Al-Hilal, giving Flick another experienced option. More surprisingly, right-back Xavi Espart has also been preferred at left-back ahead of Balde, which shows the uncertainty surrounding the academy graduate’s standing in the squad. Alejandro Balde has a decision to make in January. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) For Balde, the priority right now will be securing a more meaningful role rather than just remaining part of the first-team group.  Hence, his next few appearances could influence whether he continues to fight for his place or considers a departure. Balde exit could change Barcelona’s transfer priorities Meanwhile, a potential January sale would create a fresh decision for Deco and Barcelona’s recruitment team.  Rather than automatically signing another left-back, the club could redirect resources towards a centre-back, a position Flick wanted to strengthen last summer, particularly a left-footed defender. Andreas Christensen’s injury has added weight to that requirement, leaving Barcelona with another defensive issue to address.  Balde’s future and the club’s search for defensive reinforcements are not necessarily linked, but an exit could give Barça greater flexibility to add another defender.