Despite competition from Gerard Martín, Jofre Torrents and even Joao Cancelo, it is clear that the German coach prefers Balde for his performance and attacking pace, something that gives him a unique profile.
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However, there is no denying that it is largely inconsistent and unpredictable, and its fluctuating quality has led to some frustrations. In that sense, its prominence has experienced a slight decline in recent times.
On the radar of two giants
As SPORT reported in a recent update, some of Europe’s top clubs are keeping an eye on Baldé’s situation and see potential to lure him away from Catalonia.
Manchester United have been chasing him for some time now, but now Inter Milan have joined the race as the latest entrant. They also value him for his offensive spirit and see him as a great addition to their team.
Hansi Flick highly values Balde. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
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Both clubs are weighing up the option of submitting offers in the summer, and with the player’s market value currently at €60 million, it will have to be a fairly large figure that they present.
The youth defender’s current contract with the club extends until the summer of 2028 with a termination clause of one billion euros, and it is clear that Barcelona see him as a key player for the future.
What remains a remote possibility, however, is that the club prioritizes the financial benefit it can obtain from his sale and subsequently prioritizes another signing of its own in the department. At the end of the day, players like Alejandro Grimaldo interest the club.
Balde is represented by Jorge Mendes, who shares a close bond with Joan Laporta, who is likely to return to power. All things considered, the possibility of Balde leaving is remote, but it exists.