Chelsea and Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing 20-year-old Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde.
A report from Fichajes has claimed that Chelsea and Barcelona are currently favourites to sign Alejandro Balde. The 20-year-old faces an uncertain future at Barcelona, who might cash in on him.
Alejandro Balde in the Premier League: A possibility?
The Spanish international could prove to be a solid long-term acquisition for Chelsea, and he could prove to be an upgrade on Marc Cucurella, who has struggled to live up to the expectations since the big-money move from Brighton & Hove Albion.
Ben Chilwell is the only reliable left-back at the club right now, while Ian Maatsen faces an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge. So, it is no surprise that Chelsea are looking at other options. The opportunity to move to the Premier League could be an attractive option for the 20-year-old, who will fancy his chances of doing well in the Premier League.
Chelsea and Manchester United are two of the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to play for them can be hard to turn down. The Blues have spent a significant amount of money in recent windows to improve the squid, and the youngster would be another solid long-term investment.
It is evident that they are looking to put together a formidable squad for the future, and the 20-year-old certainly fits the profile of players they are trying to attract. Chelsea have made a mediocre start to the current campaign by their standards, and they will hope to bounce back strongly in the coming months. Signing the right players in January could help them improve.
Meanwhile, Manchester United need to sign a quality left-back as well. Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia have had their fair share of injury problems, and Erik ten Hag needs more depth in his defensive unit.
The 20-year-old Barcelona defender is capable of operating as a wing-back as well, and he will add creativity to the side going forward. Balde could certainly flourish in Erik ten Hag’s attacking system, and it would be an exciting opportunity for him.
Both clubs have the financial muscle to get the deal done, and it remains to be seen whether Barcelona are prepared to sell him for a reasonable price. The Blaugrana are going through financial difficulties and might need to raise funds for their own signings. But the rumour still seems absurd, considering he has a bright future ahead of him. So, Barcelona should not sell him.
