The European market is abuzz ahead of Liverpool’s impending defence overhaul, with their target set on Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde.
The need for reinforcements at Anfield is critical: Andrew Robertson, a club legend, will end his contract in June, leaving a void that will be difficult to fill on a free transfer.
From the Barcelona offices, the perspective has changed drastically regarding the future of their homegrown player, Balde, who no longer enjoys the status of a non-transferable footballer.
Deco, the Catalan club’s sporting director, has expressed some doubts about the 22-year-old defender’s performance, opening the door to a sale.
Liverpool appear to be the ideal destination according to SciSports’ algorithms, far surpassing direct competitors like Manchester United in terms of sporting form, highlighting that the tactical system would greatly favor the explosive Spaniard.
Balde, with a contract valid until 2028 at Barcelona, has become a coveted player on the market due to his international projection.
The Spanish player’s price tag has been set at 59.9 million euros, a figure that Barcelona hopes to recoup for its coffers.
Reports suggest the Catalan club had previously rejected an offer of around £50m from United just over a year ago.
Currently, the defender has made 21 appearances in the current league season, providing two assists and consolidating his presence in the Spanish national team call-ups.
The market valuation according to Transfermarkt reaches 60 million euros, an amount that the British are willing to seriously consider for their planning.