Newcastle United and Arsenal ‘contact’ player’s agent amid contract confusion

The left-back has made rapid progression during the last 12 months.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Newcastle United and Arsenal have reportedly made contact with the agent of Barcelona star Alejandro Balde as the Catalan giants continue to be hampered by financial difficulties.

The 19-year-old left-back came through Barca’s famed La Masia academy after joining them from local rivals Espanyol just over a decade ago and was handed his first senior involvement in a Champions League defeat at the hands of Bayern Munich in September 2021.

Federico Valverde and Alejandro Balde battle for the ball during the La Liga match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)Federico Valverde and Alejandro Balde battle for the ball during the La Liga match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Federico Valverde and Alejandro Balde battle for the ball during the La Liga match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He went on to make a total of seven appearances during his first season in Barca’s first-team but has become a regular feature in Xavi’s side during the current campaign. Ahead of Sunday night’s visit to Atletico Madrid, Balde has made 18 appearances in all competitions and his form earned him a surprise place in Spain’s World Cup Finals squad.

An injury to Valencia’s Jose Gaya gave Balde a route into the squad and then-Spain manager Luis Enrique heaped praise on the youngster after his selection was confirmed. He said: “He is well known to everyone, he is a very young player, but his experience in the first division makes him interesting enough for him to help us. I am sure the group will welcome him and help him with everything - a bit like you are all helping me.”

Balde went on to make four appearances in Qatar and has returned to speculation Barcelona are keen to reward his progression with a new contract. With his current deal set to expire at the end of next season, the La Liga giants are looking to tie down the defender until the summer of 2027 - but their financial crisis means they will be unable to register Balde due to a salary cap placed upon them, according to Spanish outlet Sport.

Newcastle and Arsenal are said to have contacted Balde’s representatives over a deal and are looking to test Barcelona’s resolve to hold on to one of their most talented youngsters.