Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde in January, with Spanish journalist Juan Jesus naming the Reds and AC Milan among the clubs competing for his signature.
Balde has struggled for regular minutes under Hansi Flick this season, and Fabrizio Romano says his future could become a January issue if a suitable offer arrives. Barcelona are reportedly seeking at least €45m (£37.5m) to consider a sale.
Liverpool join race for Barcelona left-back Balde
Juan Jesus reported on X that Liverpool and AC Milan are “going all out” for Balde and have joined Manchester United in the race for his signature. He added that Barcelona have set a minimum asking price of €45m for the left-back.
The journalist also claimed that Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola and Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim admire Balde and believe he would fit their systems. However, neither club nor either manager has independently confirmed that claim.
Balde’s future was also a topic of discussion during the summer. Fabrizio Romano said Barcelona were willing to consider a sale if they received a significant offer, but the defender wanted to stay and compete for his place.
No agreement was reached with any club.
Romano said: “The situation that is getting more complicated is the situation of Alejandro Balde.”
He added: “Balde, in the summer, was a potential exit. Barcelona wanted Balde to go in the summer in case of a good proposal, but Balde wanted to stay and fight for his place.”
Why Balde’s Barcelona future is uncertain
Balde has found opportunities limited under Flick this season. LaLiga’s official records show two league appearances, zero starts and 72 minutes, while UEFA lists one Champions League appearance, totalling 16 minutes.
Romano described the situation as one to monitor in January, saying Balde is “almost never playing”. He stressed that any potential move would depend on the player’s wishes and the quality of an offer.
“Now it’s November, Balde is almost never playing, really limited minutes,” Romano said. “So this could be a situation to watch in January in case of [a] good proposal, in case of [a] good opportunity.”
Balde had been a more regular presence in previous campaigns. Barcelona’s official records show he made 47 appearances in 2024/25 and 42 appearances, including 31 starts, in 2025/26.
The 23-year-old’s reduced role has fuelled speculation over a January departure. Juan Jesus claimed Balde is already open to leaving, although Romano stopped short of confirming that, saying any decision would depend on the player.
