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Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde is reportedly considering ending his spell at the club during the January transfer window after becoming increasingly dissatisfied with his limited involvement under manager Hansi Flick. According to a report by Barca Universal on Monday, November 2, 2026, the 23-year-old is prepared to consider offers from interested teams if his circumstances at Camp Nou do not improve in the coming weeks.
Manchester United are among the clubs said to be monitoring the Spanish defender, whose future has become uncertain following a difficult period in the Barcelona first team. Reports from Mundo Deportivo indicate that Balde is frustrated by the lack of regular opportunities and is beginning to question whether he can regain a prominent role under Flick.
The defender had expected Barcelona’s recent injury problems at the back to create an opening for him to return to the starting line-up. However, his appearances in matches against Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and Deportivo Alaves have not resulted in a sustained improvement in his position within the squad.
His continued omission from the starting team for the Alaves fixture reportedly added to his disappointment. Balde had hoped to use the club’s defensive difficulties as an opportunity to demonstrate his qualities and convince Flick that he deserved a regular place. Instead, his involvement has remained limited, leaving him uncertain about his prospects for the remainder of the campaign.
Competition for places has also become more challenging. The development of academy prospect Xavi Espart and the arrival of Joao Cancelo have increased the number of options available to Flick. Both players are reportedly ahead of Balde in the current selection picture, making it harder for the 23-year-old to secure consistent minutes.
There are also concerns within Barcelona’s coaching structure about aspects of his performances. The technical staff are reportedly questioning his concentration and decision-making when applying pressure to opponents. Flick has previously acknowledged that Balde was struggling to display sufficient confidence and conviction, suggesting that the defender still has areas to improve.
Manchester United’s reported interest could offer him an opportunity to restart his career in a different environment. The Red Devils are not the only English club to have considered his situation, as both Manchester sides reportedly explored the possibility of signing him during the previous summer transfer window.
Bayern Munich were also linked with the Barcelona player before turning their attention elsewhere and completing the signing of Nathaniel Brown. Their previous interest indicates that Balde’s situation has attracted attention beyond England, although no agreement with another club has been reported.
Barcelona’s financial circumstances could play an important role in determining whether a January departure is approved. The club are keen to strengthen their squad during the winter window and would prefer to generate transfer income rather than allow Balde to leave temporarily on loan. A permanent sale would provide additional resources for recruitment.
For Balde, the priority is securing a more consistent role rather than spending another season watching opportunities pass by. If his relationship with the first-team selection picture does not improve, a permanent move away from Camp Nou could become an increasingly realistic option. However, any transfer will depend on suitable offers and Barcelona’s willingness to negotiate.