Barcelona view out-of-favour defender’s exit as key to signing reinforcements in January

Barcelona view out-of-favour defender’s exit as key to signing reinforcements in January The recent defeats to Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have made it clear that Barcelona desperately need some reinforcements at the back. That is why the upcoming January transfer window is going to be crucial for the club. And in order to crack the market, the club must finalise the future of Alejandro Balde. The left-back is not a part of Hansi Flick’s plans but recent injuries saw him feature in games against PSG and Real Madrid – matches Barcelona eventually lost. Now, as we near the January transfer window, Barcelona have a plan in place for Balde. Barcelona ready to offload Balde According to SPORT , Balde’s exit is viewed as absolutely key to Barcelona being able to strengthen, with the club prepared to sanction a departure provided the terms are right. All eyes on Balde’s future. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images) Flick was clear with the academy graduate at the start of the season that he would not be counted on, yet Balde opted to stay and fight despite offers on the table. Almost three months on, with his progression stalling, all parties now accept that a solution may be needed. The club are open to either a loan or a permanent sale, but only if a big-money offer arrives, as the funds are what would unlock a move for a defensive addition. His agent, Jorge Mendes, has been active, holding talks with clubs in the Premier League and Serie A. Roma are weighing a January loan with an option to buy, Juventus retain an interest, and Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham have all made preliminary enquiries. Barcelona’s targets in January Balde must leave to make way for new signings. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images) As mentioned earlier, any incoming business hinges directly on that outgoing one. Barcelona have revived their interest in Juventus full-back Andrea Cambiaso , valued at around €30 million and contracted until 2029, with his versatility across both flanks appealing to Flick. The Catalans are also keen on Stuttgart’s highly rated young centre-back Finn Jeltsch , though Real Madrid are monitoring him too. Having spent almost everything on attack in the summer, Deco and co. now recognise the defence needs attention. But with FFP constraints biting, Balde’s exit could be very crucial.