Barcelona may need to sell in January; Alejandro Balde among names reportedly available

What the report says

Spanish publication Fichajes reports that Barcelona face pressure to raise money after a big summer of spending and may look to sell players in the January window. Alejandro Balde and Frenkie de Jong are named as two players who could be made available.

Why Balde is linked to a sale

Balde has been linked with Manchester United in recent coverage. He is 22 and, according to the reporting cited, has not established himself as an automatic starter at Barcelona this season. That reduced role could make him a candidate for departure if the club decides to monetise squad members to balance finances.

Sources in the coverage note Balde's preference has been to remain at Barcelona, a point reported via Fabrizio Romano. Still, limited minutes and Barcelona's spending position create plausible conditions for the club to consider offers in January.

United might be interested

Left-back is a recognized area of weakness for Manchester United. The club's options look unsettled: Luke Shaw is reportedly likely to leave at the end of his contract next summer, and Tyrick Mitchell has been linked as a possible replacement. That context explains why Balde, a young left-back with development history at Barcelona, would attract United's interest.

Previous approaches and reported contact between United and Balde's circle occurred during the last window. Those talks did not produce a move, partly because Balde preferred to stay and because of deal complexity. The Fichajes report suggests the situation could change if Barcelona formally decide to sell.

How likely a move is now

Immediate implications and what to watch

• Monitor January transfer activity at Barcelona for official statements or listings of available players.

• Track Manchester United's midfield and defensive plans, including whether they pursue external left-back targets or rely on Tyrick Mitchell internally.

Bottom line

Fichajes presents Balde and Frenkie de Jong as names Barcelona could sell to raise funds after a costly summer. Balde fits Manchester United's positional needs, and prior links between the player and United mean a January move would be plausible if Barcelona decides to push sales and if Balde becomes open to leaving. The situation remains a developing transfer story rather than a confirmed transaction.