Pep Guardiola shows interest in a Barça full-back: signing to leave Flick out

La Masia's talent knows no bounds; it has become Barça's greatest asset for years, producing world-class players. Alongside Leo Messi, Xavi Hernández, Sergio Busquets, or Andrés Iniesta, among many others, new generations are now joining the ranks. Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, Alejandro Balde, Marc Casadó, and others are already a reality.

In this regard, it's not surprising that the talent caused at La Masia is highly desired by some of Europe's top clubs. In the past, PSG made an astronomical offer for Lamine Yamal, but Barça ended up rejecting the million-euro Parisian offer. Now, Pep Guardiola is pursuing one of the pillars of Barcelona's defense.

We're talking about Alejandro Balde, the starting left-back and one of the cornerstones in Hansi Flick's system. The future of the left-back is once again hanging in the air; Pep Guardiola has him on his radar as a key piece to strengthen City's defensive line. The interest is not coincidental; since Balde is a great footballer, Barça is open to listening to offers given his history of recurring injuries.

Doubts with Alejandro Balde

Although no one can question his quality, the youth academy graduate's continuous injuries have hindered his progress and consistency in the team. At 21 years old, his ongoing physical problems have given opportunities to other footballers like Gerard Martín, who has delivered great performances. In addition to Gerard, who has become an important piece for Flick, the young Jofre Torrents has also entered the scene.

The consistent performance of both provides real and reliable alternatives for the first team, putting Balde under pressure. His inconsistency has led Barça to be open to listening to offers; a good sale would mean a cash injection. Meanwhile, City would invest in a young, talented player who, despite his youth, already has significant international experience.

Guardiola, his main supporter

Alejandro Balde fits perfectly the profile of a full-back Guardiola seeks: fast and incisive on the flank. In the Premier League, a full-back with range and speed finds more space to showcase all his strengths. It would be a good scenario for Alejandro Balde to progress and show all his potential.

Guardiola knows that, if injuries don't hold him back, he will become one of the best full-backs in the world. Balde thus becomes a strategic signing for City and could be the next big bet for the Catalan coach. Meanwhile, Barça could solve a large part of their financial problems and be able to pursue some of their target signings in 2026.