Exit-linked Barcelona defender skips break to work on his fitness despite limited role in the team

Exit-linked Barcelona defender skips break to work on his fitness despite limited role in the team Alejandro Balde’s days at Barcelona seem numbered, with each passing day as the defender has struggled to gain prominence even at a time when Barcelona defence is facing an ongoing injury crisis. Balde has featured in just 124 minutes of competitive action this season, falling behind the likes of Xavi Espart, Joao Cancelo, Eric Garcia, Jules Kounde and even Brian Farinas in the pecking order. This has led to question marks over his long-term future, with his agent Jorge Mendes reportedly exploring a January exit from the club. Balde skips break to train harder Balde is ready for whatever opportunities comes his way. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images) Balde, though, remains fully committed in his quest to impress Hansi Flick and has refused to yield. This has been evident during the ongoing international break, with the Spaniard opting to keep working out to maintain fitness, reports Mundo Deportivo . This comes at a time when Flick decided to hand his players who were not a part of the international break five days off to recover, with the squad not due back until Monday. Balde chose to forgo the break entirely, even sharing an Instagram story of himself grinding in the gym. In the video shared, he is seen performing high-speed coordination drills on a single leg before lifting 40 kg with a barbell. Determined to be ready What’s in store for Balde’s future? (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) It appears Balde is keen on ensuring he is in peak physical condition whenever his next opportunity at Barcelona arrives. Despite his limited game time this season, Balde has never lost hope and has shown tremendous commitment to help Barcelona at every turn. As far as the club are concerned, the next few weeks are going to be important, as the Blaugrana are not completely averse to the idea of selling the player in the upcoming January transfer window. It is no secret that Barcelona are looking for a new central defender in the market, and Balde’s potential sale could go a long way in giving them the leverage to do so. A few clubs have already been linked with a move for Balde. But these are still early days, and it will be interesting to see how things evolve in the coming weeks.