The newspaper "Sport" revealed today that FC Barcelona has received an offer from a European club to sign Alejandro Balde, who is linked with leaving the Blaugrana during the current summer transfer window.
Balde's standing at Barcelona has declined recently, as the player suffered a series of injuries last season, prompting coach Hans Flick to rely on João Cancelo in the left-back position.
"Sport" confirmed that Balde has given his agent, Jorge Mendes, the green light to seek a new club, indicating that the player will leave Barcelona before the summer transfer window closes.
The newspaper added that a financial obstacle delayed Balde's departure from Barcelona, namely the initial price set by the Spanish club at around 40 to 45 million euros when rumors of his exit first emerged two months ago. However, the situation now appears different, and Balde will only be sold at this price to clubs from the Saudi Pro League.
Read also... McManaman offers advice to Real Madrid's new signing: Accept comparisons with Lamine Yamal
"Sport" clarified that Benfica submitted an official offer to sign Balde, as the Portuguese club aims to acquire a left-back and a center-back during the summer transfer window. However, Benfica's offer is unlikely to exceed 20 million euros, requiring the Eagles to provide additional incentives and add-ons to improve what currently seems like a weak proposal.
Regarding the English Premier League, the newspaper noted that Manchester United is not the only club interested in signing Balde; Aston Villa has also entered negotiations for the 22-year-old player. Nevertheless, last season's Europa League champions currently lack sufficient liquidity to bring in new players and are waiting to sell existing squad members before making new signings.
The newspaper further stated that there is no indication of Manchester United's interest in signing Balde, although the number of clubs keen on acquiring the player is expected to increase during the remaining period of the summer transfer window.
Finally, "Sport" concluded by noting that Balde is highly regarded by numerous European clubs, while Barcelona strives to finalize a major deal before the summer transfer window closes, though time is not on the Catalan side's favor.
