Liverpool have been looking for solutions to a problem that has become increasingly clear at left-back, and a Barcelona name has now added another twist to the situation after being linked with a potential move to the Premier League. This is not simply a passing mention, as the player is being viewed by some observers as a possible solution to one of the areas Liverpool need to strengthen.
The surprise is that the player has a huge release clause in his Barcelona contract worth €1 billion, around £856 million, although that figure does not necessarily reflect the value around which actual negotiations could take place, with reports suggesting a potential deal could be discussed for around €40 million.
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The player in question is Alejandro Balde, the 22-year-old Spanish left-back whose contract with Barcelona runs until 2028. Despite having significant experience for his age, his situation at the club has become more complicated at the start of the current season, with his position in Hansi Flick’s pecking order falling.
According to reports, Balde has become a third-choice option at left-back as Flick relies on other players, leading to a clear reduction in his playing time. TEAMtalk reports that this situation has opened the door to speculation over a possible departure during the upcoming January transfer window.
Liverpool, meanwhile, have an obvious reason to enter the race, with the left side of their defence becoming a concern. Milos Kerkez has yet to produce the level expected of him since his move, while Kostas Tsimikas does not appear to be a long-term option, particularly with his contract approaching its final stages.
That is why journalist Lewis Steele believes signing a new left-back should be one of Liverpool’s priorities going forward, although he also stressed that he has not received any confirmed information specifically linking Balde with Liverpool at this stage.
Balde’s name has nevertheless appeared in Spanish reports as a potential option for the English club in January, particularly because Andoni Iraola is open to the idea of signing him if the deal becomes a suitable opportunity from both a sporting and financial perspective.
The relationship that has developed between Barcelona and Liverpool could also help open the door to negotiations after Ronald Araujo joined Anfield on loan. The deal was completed quickly and indicated that communication channels between the two clubs are in good shape.
Manchester United had already explored a move for Balde during the summer, but their desire to sign him on loan clashed with Barcelona’s preference for a permanent sale, and the attempt ended without an agreement.
As a result, Balde’s situation will be one to watch as January approaches, particularly if he continues to struggle for regular starts at Barcelona. At present, there is no completed deal or final agreement with Liverpool, but the Reds’ need for a left-back, combined with Balde’s situation at Barcelona, means his name is likely to remain prominent in the upcoming transfer market.
