Barcelona youngster ready to renew

Jacque Talbot

• 10 Apr 2023 20:59 BST
• 3 min read

Xavi has been won over by the impressive performances of Alejandro Balde this season and a fresh contract is now in the works.

The Barca boss considers the defender a vital piece of Barcelona's future plans and now talks are underway, reports Sport.

The publication claim that the club has been in negotiations with Balde's agent, Jorge Mendes, for several months to renew his contract until 2027.

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Despite financial issues and contract details that were previously unresolved, both parties seem eager to continue their relationship and are expected to finalise the agreement in a meeting this week. The club hopes to make a big announcement about the renewal on their social media platforms.

As well as this, it is thought a release clause of €1billion euros may be included in the new contract. Balde has impressed as a versatile left and right-back, earning his debut for the Spanish national team at the World Cup in Qatar. His potential is highly valued by the Catalan team, leading them to secure his future with the club.

For several months there has been talks of the renewal, but the agreement did not seem to be finalised due to financial problems and some other detail in the footballer's contract that did not quite convince Mendes - but these problems seem solved and a deal could be wrapped up later this week.

Chelsa rumoured interest

It comes after the news that Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing the youngster at the end of the season.

Chelsea signed Marc Cucurella from Brighton at the start of the season but he has not been able to live up to the expectations and so they are looking at alternatives.

Ben Chilwell is expected to sign fresh terms but they may look to bring in fresh blood.