Barcelona defender still intends to stay despite growing speculation over future

Earlier today, reports emerged suggesting that Alejandro Balde had decided to leave FC Barcelona before the transfer window closes.

The 22-year-old left-back faces competition for a starting berth now that Joao Cancelo has been re-signed permanently.

Moreover, reports suggest that Barça manager Hansi Flick has some doubts the player as well.

The German’s pointed remark at the La Masia graduate during his press conference earlier today seemed to underline the point, which eventually gave way to rumours of a departure.

However, according to Mundo Deportivo, Balde is not giving up.

Despite the events of recent hours, including his agent’s visit to Barcelona and the meeting they held, as well as Flick’s warning during his press conference, the Barça academy graduate still wants to succeed at Barcelona.

Not giving up. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images)

The Spanish defender is highly motivated to work toward becoming Barça’s starting left-back. He interpreted Flick’s comments as a challenge rather than a signal that he should leave.

Flick had said: “It’s important to know whether a player is convinced so that he can compete for his position.”

According to sources close to the player, the youngster interpreted the manager’s message as a challenge to fight for his place.

Balde, therefore, wants to distance himself from reports claiming that he has already decided to leave Barça.

However, the report further states that if Barcelona tell Balde that he is not part of the club’s plans, he will not object to finding a new destination before the window closes on September 2.

Until either Flick or the club explicitly tells him that he does not have a place in the team this season and that it is best for him to look elsewhere, Balde intends to keep fighting for the manager’s confidence and compete for his place.

Will Balde stay or leave? (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

If Barça ultimately asks him to leave, Balde is unlikely to struggle to find suitors.

During the meeting with his agent, Jorge Mendes, in Barcelona on Friday, the Portuguese representative presented him with the offers currently available.

There is plenty of interest from Europe, where Manchester United are among the clubs monitoring his situation, while Benfica and Aston Villa have also asked about him.

Meanwhile, Balde has proposals from Saudi Arabia as well.

For now, though, Balde’s preference remains to stay at Barcelona and earn his place rather than actively seek an exit.