Barcelona evaluates Balde's role amid center-back transfer plans for January

Alejandro Balde's future at Barcelona could hinge on his playing time as the January transfer window approaches. The left-back has seen minimal action under coach Hansi Flick, with only a brief 12-minute appearance this season. Barcelona's recruitment team may need to adapt their strategies depending on Balde's status, especially if he opts for a move, potentially impacting the club's search for defensive reinforcements. The arrival of Joao Cancelo has further complicated Balde's position in the squad, while Xavi Espart has also been preferred at left-back. This provides Balde with an incentive to secure more meaningful playing time in his next outings.

• 7:00 AMYahoo Sports — Barcelona could use homegrown star’s transfer to address Flick’s centre-back demands in January