Newcastle United have reportedly made their first move to sign Alejandro Balde from Barcelona.
That is according to Sport in Spain, who claim that the Magpies have made contact with his representatives regarding a transfer. They add that Arsenal have done the same, with Mikel Arteta’s side also interested in the Spanish left-back.
Both Newcastle and Arsenal’s interest stems from Balde’s contract situation. He currently has a deal with Barcelona until 2024, and had been in talks about an extenstion.
Sport claim that the 19-year-old has been in negotiations over a new deal until 2027 that would include a release clause worth £440million. However, the report states the Catalan giants’ financial woes are hindering their bid to tie Balde down to a new contract.
Wages have been a big issue at the Nou Camp in recent years, and Sport state that while a new deal would include a pay rise for Balde, it would not come into effect until the summer. That is because the La Liga salary cap means they would not be able to register him right now with an increase in wages. They could have the same issue in the summer, but there would be more room for manoeuvre given that the season will be over and moving players around will be easier.
Balde and his representatives have not been pleased by the situation, and it could open the door for Newcastle to make a move.
Alejandro Balde could be Newcastle’s long-term left-back
Left-back is an interesting position for Newcastle right now. Despite spending £15million on Matt Targett in the summer, it is Dan Burn who has been the Magpies’ first choice on the left of defence.
It is a position that Newcastle are performing well in, but the club will be eager to bring in a future star for that position – like they are doing on the right of defence after links with Ivan Fresneda.
Balde is another Spaniard who the club are targeting, and he could be the club’s long-term left-back solution.
He is a player with a lot of talent. He made his international debut late last year, appearing at the World Cup for Spain where he made four appearances.
Given that he has come through the Barcelona academy, it is no surprise that he is strong in possession and incredibly attacking. He has been able to learn from Jordi Alba, who has been one of football’s top left-backs over the past 10 or so years.
Barca will want Balde to be his long-term replacement, but this contract issue could force him out.
Newcastle are seemingly poised to make a move, and have reportedly made contact regarding a transfer to St James’ Park.
Left-back is not a priority right now, but it is certainly encouraging to see the club have their finger on the pulse when a player like Balde could soon be available.
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