Barcelona starlet has offers from Premier League, but is prioritising Camp Nou stay

Like Pedri in 2020/21 and Gavi in the last season, Barcelona have unearthed another young gem in their ranks in the ongoing campaign in the form of Alejandro Balde.

The 19-year-old La Masia graduate, who made his debut under Ronald Koeman last year is enjoying his proper breakthrough under Xavi Hernandez in 2022/23.

Balde’s performances have been so impressive that he has overtaken two established veterans like Jordi Alba and Marcos Alonso to become the first-choice left-back at Spotify Camp Nou this season.

The teenage defender has made 12 appearances across all competitions for Barcelona this season and has registered three assists in the process. He has also been named in the 55-man probables list for Spain’s squad for the FIFA World Cup.

Naturally, Balde’s progression has attracted eyeballs from elsewhere, with SPORT reporting that the left-back has offers from the Premier League.

While the names of the clubs have not been revealed, the report claims that they have approached the youngster’s agent, Jorge Mendes, to ask about the 18-year-old’s situation and are keeping tabs on him.

Balde’s current contract with Barcelona expires in the summer of 2024. However, talks over an extension have already begun, with the La Masia ace’s priority being to continue at Spotify Camp Nou.

However, at the same time, the player’s entourage wants to ensure that he is rewarded adequately by the club along the same lines as Gavi and Ronald Araujo, who recently signed new contracts.

That is where Mendes plans to use the reported interest from the Premier League clubs to get a good deal for his client. Teams in England see Balde as a good fit due to his pace, power and other characteristics and the superagent has made Barcelona aware of the same.

Talks over a renewal until 2027 are already underway with a substantial improvement on Balde’s wages and release clause. Barcelona are not entertaining the possibility of parting ways with the teenager and wish to close the contract signing between December and January.