Barcelona have reportedly placed a minimum €40 million price tag on Alejandro Balde amid growing interest from Premier League giants Chelsea and Manchester United ahead of the January transfer window.

The Spanish defender faces an uncertain future at the Camp Nou after falling down the pecking order under Hansi Flick, with the Catalan club now prepared to listen to offers for his services.

According to Barca Universal, citing Spanish publication SPORT, Barcelona are willing to sanction Balde’s departure as they look to raise funds to strengthen their defence during the winter transfer window.

Barcelona Prioritise Centre-Back Signing

The La Liga champions have identified the signing of a new centre-back as a priority and believe selling the 23-year-old could provide the financial resources needed to pursue their targets.

Although Barcelona would prefer a permanent transfer, they have not completely ruled out a loan arrangement.

However, any temporary move would have to include an obligation to buy the defender at the end of the season.

Balde’s situation has deteriorated considerably since the beginning of the campaign, having been informed during the summer that he was no longer central to Flick’s plans.

Despite Barcelona’s willingness to entertain offers at the time, the Spain international opted to remain at his boyhood club and fight for his place.

That decision has yet to produce the desired outcome, with Balde managing just 116 minutes across four appearances this season.

Balde Behind Cancelo, Espart In Pecking Order

Flick has instead preferred Xavi Espart and Joao Cancelo at left-back, despite neither player being a natural option in the position.

The development has reportedly left Balde frustrated, with the academy graduate now considering a move away from Barcelona in search of regular first-team football.

Meanwhile, Man United have revived their interest in the defender after previously exploring a potential transfer during the summer.

The Red Devils held discussions with Balde’s representative, Jorge Mendes, but a deal failed to materialise.

Chelsea have since joined the race, with both Premier League clubs believed to be capable of meeting Barcelona’s €40 million valuation.

Liverpool and Manchester City are also monitoring the situation, although neither club is currently expected to make a formal approach.