Alejandro Balde has returned to first-team training at Barcelona, but his place in Hansi Flick’s plans is still not fully clear. The left-back is understood to have turned down summer interest to stay at the club, though the identity of his suitors and the exact terms of those approaches remain unclear.
- Alejandro Balde has returned to group training after being left out of Barcelona’s matchday squad against Elche.
- The defender is understood to have rejected summer interest to remain at Camp Nou, although the details of those approaches are still unclear.
- Manchester United are monitoring the situation, but a late move is far from certain.
Alejandro Balde’s Current Situation
Alejandro Balde remains an important figure at Barcelona. During the 2025 La Liga season, he made 28 appearances and 21 starts for the Catalan giants, underlining that Flick is dealing with an established first-team regular rather than a peripheral squad member.
Barcelona’s immediate issue is the contrast between Balde’s return to full training and the uncertainty that still hangs over his role after he was dropped for the clash with Elche. Flick made that tension plain when he revealed he had told Balde he did not believe the player was at Barcelona “100%”, adding that the defender needed to clarify his ideas before they spoke again.
Manchester United Monitor Balde’s Situation
Manchester United have been keeping a close eye on Balde’s situation ahead of the transfer deadline, even if Barcelona remain in the driving seat. United have been exploring left-back options to provide competition for Luke Shaw.
A deal should still be treated with caution. The interest appears genuine, and Barcelona are aware of it, but the prospect of a move is currently being played down.
Balde’s Prospects and Barcelona’s Next Decision
Balde is believed to want assurances over his playing time for the 2026 season. Flick is expected to hold face-to-face talks with the player before any final call is made on his future.
Barcelona could yet keep Balde if those discussions bring enough clarity and he is ready to fully compete for his place. If they do not, a late-window departure remains a distinct possibility, meaning their next conversation will likely matter far more than his latest training session.
