Barcelona, Spain — Aug 27: Alejandro Balde warms up ahead of Barcelona’s LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 clash with Athletic Club at Spotify Camp Nou. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
With Estupiñán and Saelemaekers sidelined, Ruben Amorim may revisit a January bid for Alejandro Balde, hoping to fill his depleted wide‑back slots.
Calciomercato.com notes that Barcelona’s wing‑back is now under close watch after falling out of Hansi Flick’s shortlist.
He’s logged a mere 12 minutes this campaign, a late cameo versus Racing Santander when the match was already decided, and has been eclipsed by João Cancelo and even natural right‑back Xavi Espart.
Milan weigh a January move for Balde
Mundo Deportivo says Barcelona is willing to sell in January, earmarking the proceeds for a centre‑back replacement as Andreas Christensen remains injured. In my view, the club’s readiness to part with Balde shows a clear shift in priorities.
Milan already fielded an offer: Jorge Mendes pitched Balde in late August, right after Diego Moreira joined. The club rejected it, citing a €40 million tag and a focus on a centre‑back and an attacking midfielder.
A reduced fee or a creative structure might sway Milan, given Balde’s contract expires in June 2028.
Milan won’t be alone; Juventus aim to deliver the left‑back Spalletti requested this summer, and Manchester United, who chased Balde before the deadline, are likely to re‑enter the race.