For the first time in years, young Alejandro Balde’s future at Barcelona is being questioned, and for good reason.
While he has long been seen as a bright prospect and a potential all-time great should he develop correctly, he has shown no signs of growth in recent seasons.
His stagnation, needless to say, has been a concern for Barcelona and the club are now active on the market in terms of scouting possible left-back reinforcements. Marc Cucurella, on that front, is one player linked with a move.
One key factor
As revealed by MARCA in a recent report, Cucurella is well aware of Barcelona’s interest in signing him in the summer. The operation to sign him, however, is dependent on factors beyond his control.
Marc Cucurella, Chelsea player
Cucurella is a La Masia graduate. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Indeed, whether or not Barcelona land Cucurella will largely depend on the decision of Alejandro Balde who does not want to leave Barcelona as matters stand.
The player is indeed not satisfied with how his prominence has dwindled since Janaury nor with the amount of playing time he has seen. The arrival of Joao Cancelo in the winter window was another move he did not approve of.
Despite all the hurdles, however, he does not consider a departure at this moment in time.
Close monitoring
Cucurella, as a La Masia graduate himself, stands out as an option for Barcelona should Balde choose to leave. The club, thus, will be scouting him keenly in the coming weeks.
Mikel Merino, Marc Cucurella, Spanish players
Cucurella will be at the World Cup. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
The Chelsea star will be at the FIFA World Cup with Spain and is even expected to be a starting left-back for Luis de la Fuente.
Barcelona, thus, will be closely monitoring his performances, quality and output throughout the tournament before they make a final decision on his arrival. After all, they are joined in the race by Atletico Madrid as well.