Arsenal prepare move for versatile Barcelona wonderkid despite huge release clause

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Barcelona wonderkid Alejandro Balde, despite the full-back being offered a new contract to stay at Camp Nou until 2027.

Barcelona were keen to tie one of their star young assets down to a new deal, given his rapid development through to the first team.

Balde made his La Liga debut last season, and made five appearances for Les Cules.

But it is this season where he has cemented his reputation as one of Europe's biggest talents, and is ahead of ex-Arsenal star Hector Bellerin in the pecking order.

One of Balde's great strengths is his versatility, with the 19-year-old able to play at right-back and left-back when required. Therefore, he has featured ahead of Jordi Alba on the left side on occasion this campaign, although the majority of his 18 appearances in all competitions have come at right-back. That is because Sergi Roberto has suffered from several injury issues.

Balde is said to have a release clause of £430 million in his current contract, which expires in the summer of 2024.

Despite this, according to reports, he could potentially be on his way out of Camp Nou, with Arsenal said to be one of the interested clubs.

Arsenal keen on Balde

According to Sport, both the Gunners and Newcastle are keeping tabs on Balde, who played in all four of his nation's games at the World Cup, due to his current contract situation.

That is because, despite being close to an agreement on a new deal until 2027, it is claimed that Barcelona see it as 'almost impossible' to register the contract due to La Liga's salary limits.

Sport add that the Spanish giants are considering pushing the contract finalisation back to the summer.

It is claimed that Balde has left his future open as a result - which has caught the attention of Premier League clubs.

But Barcelona do not want to sell one of their prized assets, who can also play as a winger, meaning it may take some convincing for the Gunners or Newcastle to seal a deal.