Alejandro Balde has already been informed: 'He'll return to Barça in 2026 for €20M'

Barça is once again showing great defensive solidity thanks to the changes Hansi Flick has introduced in recent weeks. The German coach has managed to restructure the backline after Iñigo Martínez's departure with the emergence of Gerard Martín as Cubarsí's partner. In addition, it's also worth highlighting the high level Alejandro Balde is showing, who has become a key piece, providing depth and speed to the culé attack.

Alejandro Balde has regained confidence after a difficult period and now he looks dominant on his flank again. His boldness in one-on-one situations and his ability to correct defensive situations have made him a regular for Flick. The fans celebrate his growth and the club considers him an essential part of the long-term project.

Competition for Alejandro Balde in 2026

However, in the midst of this great individual moment, Barça has informed him of news that could alter his future. Although Alejandro Balde is performing at an excellent level, the sporting management is working ahead of all scenarios. Among those strategic moves appears a name that has always been linked to the club: Grimaldo.

In recent years, Grimaldo has established himself in the European elite after his breakthrough at Bayer Leverkusen. His maturity, his ball striking, and his international experience make him a very attractive profile to strengthen the left flank at Camp Nou. Barça has been studying his possible return for some time and considers that the time has come to go after his signing.

It had been said that his release clause was 30 million euros, a high figure given the Catalan club's limitations with Financial Fair Play. However, the reality is that Grimaldo's release clause drops to just 20 million euros for Spanish clubs. This contractual detail could be key for Barça to seriously consider his return to Camp Nou after his time at La Masia.

Grimaldo, direct threat for Alejandro Balde

Alejandro Balde has already been informed internally that Grimaldo is a real option and that he could return to Camp Nou next summer. The message doesn't seek to diminish or cast doubt on his current role, but to prepare him for competition that is considered healthy and necessary.

Now, the one who'll have a hard time continuing as a full-back if Grimaldo returns home will be Gerard Martín. Barça's "18" is far from the performance Alejandro Balde or Grimaldo can offer, but luckily for him, Flick has converted him to a center-back in recent matches. The truth is that his performance is so surprising that he has earned a spot as the fourth center-back for next season.