Balde Open to January Barcelona Exit, goal.com Reports

Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde is open to leaving Camp Nou in January after falling out of favor under head coach Hansi Flick, placing Manchester United on alert for a permanent transfer, goal.com reported.

Winter Exit Considered Amid Dropped Minutes

Mundo Deportivo has reported that the 23-year-old Spain international has come to terms with the necessity of leaving his childhood team to obtain consistent playing time and restore his assurance. Despite defensive injuries handing him substitute outings against Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, and Alaves, he has yet to start this term. Joao Cancelo and Xavi Espart have moved ahead of him in the rotation. Coaching staff believe the defender suffers from concentration lapses and misjudges when to press.

Shifting Public Assessment From the Coach

Ahead of a meeting with Alaves, Flick delivered a blunt assessment of the defender, stating that Balde currently lacks the confidence and conviction needed in his game. Those comments contrasted sharply with the manager’s earlier supportive tone on September 15, when he stated that he was happy with him and everyone. One month later on October 16, the boss remarked that it was not an easy situation for him, noting that he was training very well while sitting behind Espart and Cancelo in the pecking order.

Balde Faces Dressing Room Friction and Training Frustrations

Balde feels particularly aggrieved after learning of his peripheral status through media briefings. Having spent 16 years at the club, the defender’s frustration grew when senior teammates questioned tactical drills that displaced him from his natural position. Balde is keen to steer clear of the professional standstill that affected his close pal Ansu Fati and would be open to an exit arrangement akin to Ronald Araujo’s, even though Cancelo has stepped up as a supportive voice within the locker room.

Manchester Clubs Track Balde for Permanent Transfer

Both Manchester clubs explored Balde’s availability last summer, and the defender remains on United’s radar. Unless his minutes improve dramatically before the new year, the player will actively listen to mid-season proposals. Transfermarkt estimates the player’s value at €40 million or £33 million, with a contract expiring in June 2028. Because Barcelona require funds to reinvest defensively rather than sanctioning a loan, suitors must finance a permanent transfer.