Alejandro Balde has been one of the FC Barcelona players who have seen their stock rise significantly this season. As a result, the renewal negotiations with the youngster are underway but haven’t been concluded yet.
The 19-year-old La Masia graduate broke through the youth ranks at FC Barcelona, and has established himself firmly as one of the starting defenders in Xavi’s setup. His inclusion has come at the expense of the highly experienced Jordi Alba, who now plays second fiddle to Balde.
This decision to play Balde has paid more than its expected dividends, as the backline of Kounde, Araujo, Christensen, and Balde has been one of the best defenses in La Liga this season. The left-back’s talent was on showcase in this last Classico as well, in which a number of other featuring players had a night to forget. He was able to hold down his flank and also had a number of opportunities to create danger in the Madrid box.
However, Balde’s contract runs only through to 2024, and according to Albert Roge of Relevo, Mateu Alemany, and Jordi Cryuff are trying to close a renewal agreement with the player’s agent, Jorge Mendes. As time passes by and Balde continues to put in impressive performances, his valuation will further increase, and the club will find their leverage further reduced.
Thus, the club would have to make a committed effort to finalize this contract renewal as soon as possible, to keep the talented youngster with the team for the future, as well as keep away the interested clubs and teams who may be looking to pry away Balde on a free.
