Barcelona homegrown star’s future back in limbo as club closes in on second summer signing
· Yahoo Sports
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Barcelona’s left-back situation could become one of the biggest talking points of the summer, with Alejandro Balde once again facing an uncertain future amid the club’s push to strengthen the position.
According to SPORT, Balde’s standing within the squad has come under fresh scrutiny following Barcelona’s move for Racing Santander talent Jorge Salinas.
As reported before, the 19-year-old defender is closing in on a switch to the Catalan giants, and crucially, the club plans to integrate him directly into the first-team and not the youth team setup.
For Balde, who already endured a frustrating campaign with limited opportunities, the latest development only increases the competition in an already crowded battle for minutes.
What’s the story?
Barcelona’s sporting department views Salinas as a market opportunity too good to ignore.
Barcelona are expected to sign Jorge Salinas. (Picture credit: Instagram/@jorgesaliiinas)
The youngster has attracted attention from several clubs, and although he initially emerged as a central defender, Salinas has successfully adapted to a full-back role.
Now, his expected arrival adds another option to a position that is already packed with competition.
Earlier this week, there was a sense that Balde’s continuity at the club was less of a concern following Real Madrid’s decision to complete the signing of Marc Cucurella.
However, Barcelona are closing in on securing an alternative solution of their own.
Unlike many young signings who begin their journey with Barça Atletic, Salinas is expected to be registered directly with the senior squad.
So what now?
Balde’s future is uncertain once again. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
Balde is scheduled to return to Barcelona on July 13 when pre-season preparations get underway under Hansi Flick.
The defender intends to fight for his place and prove he deserves a bigger role next season. However, the reality is that the competition has become significantly tougher.
At present, Joao Cancelo is viewed as the leading option for the position, with Gerard Martin also highly regarded within the club’s plans, and Salinas’ addition would create another direct rival for minutes.
For a player who once looked destined to become Barcelona’s long-term solution at left-back, the situation has changed dramatically over the past year, which is why the coming weeks will prove decisive in determining where Balde stands within Flick’s hierarchy.