As Pep Guardiola searches for a new left-back, Manchester City is allegedly mulling a deal for Barcelona star Alejandro Balde
Sergio Gomez’s performances from last season didn’t convince the management, who is eager to add additional competition for him. Last season, Bernardo Silva was frequently forced to play as a left-back, but recently, rumours of his leaving the Etihad have surfaced. Man City is therefore anticipated to sign a new left-sided defender, particularly one who is energetic and poses a danger in the final third. It’s hardly surprising that the Cityzens have linked up with Balde because he can fill that position for them.
The international player from Spain joined the Catalans when he was just eight years old in 2011 and had a fantastic debut campaign at the Nou Camp the previous year. Balde has played 51 times for Barcelona thus far. He has contributed seven assists along with one goal during this time. He is largely regarded as one of Europe’s top young full-backs. In 2024, Balde’s current Barca contract will come to an end. Balde has not yet agreed to an extension, despite the LaLiga giants’ best efforts.
Several clubs have taken notice of his recent performances. Man City has’made a bid’ for Balde, claims Spanish news source Mundo Deportivo. According to the article, a proposal “has arrived from the Etihad stadium.” It has been stated that Man City is prepared to pay Balde a’much greater’ wage than what Barcelona is providing in their agreement. However, Balde is eager to continue his career with the Catalans and has been persuaded to stay at the Camp Nou by his agent Jorge Mendes.
According to Mundo Deportivo, ‘all has been negotiated’ regarding his contract renewal, and he is still anticipated to stay with Barcelona. However, Barcelona may be compelled to accept a sizable offer for Balde given their financial difficulties. At this point, it’s unclear how much Man City is prepared to offer for him. The Premier League champions accepting him despite their recent offer would still be a major surprise.
Guardiola could have to start looking at other options as a result. After his loan agreement with Bayern Munich expired, Joao Cancelo will also be available for selection by Man City in the upcoming season. It would be intriguing to see if Guardiola decides to use the Portugal international as a left-back once more in light of this.
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