"A turning point": Baldé takes a decisive decision regarding his future with Barcelona
What happened?
Spain's Alejandro Balde has decided to leave Barcelona this summer. His stance shifted dramatically over the last ten days, with his chances of playing shrinking after the arrival of Joao Cancelo and the emergence of Xavi Espart in the team's plans.
Until recently, Balde leaned towards staying at the club despite the offers and rumours linking him with a move away. His priority was simple: remain and fight for his place under Hansi Flick.
The defender knew his role this season was far from guaranteed, but he was ready to compete for it. Then the calculations changed after Barcelona officially wrapped up the signing of Cancelo in recent days.
Barcelona's sporting director had known Cancelo might arrive, yet the completed deal transformed Balde's situation. The competition for the left-back spot suddenly looked far tougher.
Espart's appearance in the starting line-up against Elche deepened Balde's concerns. Flick then left him out of the matchday squad, a decision the player saw as a decisive turning point in his Barcelona future.
A series of talks over the past hours settled the matter. Balde will look for a new club before the window closes, and his agent Jorge Mendes has begun working alongside the Barcelona hierarchy, represented by Deco, to find him a suitable destination.
Several European clubs are keen, but time is against him. Only a week remains before the window shuts, and most sides have already finalised their squads for the new season.
Manchester United stand out as the most prominent option for the Spanish full-back. Their position has changed after recent business, though. They no longer want to sign him permanently and would prefer a loan instead.
Barcelona would have preferred a permanent sale. The shortage of time may force them to accept a loan, however, if no suitable offer arrives before deadline day.
Other offers sit on the table, but none look as attractive as the United route. Mendes and Deco keep searching for a solution, with the situation likely to run right up to the final days of the window.
