Barcelona's Alejandro Balde rejects summer exit

Alejandro Balde is not considering a summer exit from Barcelona despite losing his starting spot to Joao Cancelo. Balde wants to fight for his place. Barcelona have acted with urgency ahead of the summer transfer window by signing Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United. The club also reached an agreement with AS Monaco for the transfer of Ansu Fati. Deco and the sporting department are keen on reinforcing the squad for manager Flick. Balde broke into the first team as a teenager and displaced Jordi Alba from the left‑back role. The 22‑year‑old remained a starter until Joao Cancelo claimed the position in recent months. To regain his place, Balde must improve his final‑third decisions to fit Flick’s system. Marc Cucurella has been touted as a potential replacement for Balde. Barcelona should only consider selling Balde if an extraordinary offer emerges, as his development could still accelerate. Balde will aim to make an impression during pre‑season. A photo by Alex Caparros illustrates the story. Another image by George Wood accompanies the report.