Barcelona’s talks to renew youngster could also help close deal for Premier League midfielder

A recent report from MARCA has offered an update on Barcelona’s plans for the upcoming month. After undergoing a busy summer transfer window, the club are not expected to make too many moves in the winter market.

This is because Barcelona are crippled by Financial Fair Play regulations. In addition, there are internal areas where some problems need addressing, including the contract situation of Gavi and Ronald Araujo.

However, the report suggest Barça also have plans to renew the contract of Alejandro Balde. The young left-back has grown leaps and bounds at Camp Nou this season, emerging as a capable option in the left-back position and even moving ahead of Jordi Alba in the pecking order.

Balde’s rapid rise to prominence was rewarded with a call-up to the Spanish national team as well. But with his contract expiring in 2024, Barcelona are hoping to finalise negotiations over a potential renewal that will help them safeguard the defender’s future at Camp Nou.

The report suggests two parties have a clear intention to reach an agreement. But in addition to Balde’s extension, Barcelona could also be actively working on a deal to sign Ruben Neves.

The Portuguese international has emerged as one of the club’s options to replace Sergio Busquets next season. The veteran midfielder is expected to leave Camp Nou at the end of the season, which could create a massive void in the midfield unit.

Barça are planning to fill the void by signing someone like Neves. The club are helped by the fact that the Portuguese international shares the same agent as Balde – Jorge Mendes.

The Portuguese superagent has a close relationship with Joan Laporta and is expected to play a key role in helping Neves move to Camp Nou. He may also have a key part to play in Balde’s potential renewal later this season.

While Xavi Hernandez does not necessarily see Neves as the ideal replacement for Busquets, he is, at this moment, seen as the most financially feasible option. Martin Zubimendi is the manager’s preferred option but his €60 million release clause is seen as a hindrance.

With talks for Balde’s renewal taking place with Mendes, it could also see Barcelona segue into negotiations for Neves.