Liverpool tipped to sign £865m star who rejected Man Utd as Iraola finds solution to problem position

Liverpool are reportedly considering signing Barcelona star Alejandro Balde, who previously rejected Manchester United.

Despite welcoming several high-profile players – such as Bradley Barcola, Victor Muñoz and loanee Ronald Araújo – during the summer transfer window, it appears that the Reds are still short in several areas of the pitch, with the midfield and full-back positions coming in for criticism during the early weeks of the 2026/27 campaign.

It looks like Iraola is ready to bring in a new full-back during the winter transfer window...

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Liverpool line up move for Barcelona star Alejandro Balde

As reported by the Daily Mail’s Lewis Steele during an appearance on Anfield Index, Liverpool are likely to prioritise the signing of a new left-back.

“I think that realistically they would have wanted the left-back this summer because, as we've seen so far this season, Kerkez is still not there yet,” he said.

Steele added: “Tsimikas just doesn't look good enough. I think it's fair to say.”

When pressed on who Liverpool could bring in, the journalist mentioned Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde, with the Spaniard having previously been linked with a move to Manchester United in the summer.

“As for Balde, I see why the name gets mentioned,” he said.

“It might make sense financially and his situation in terms of playing time and whatever.”

Balde, who is also attracting interest from Inter Milan, reportedly has an £856million exit clause in his deal with Barcelona, while the Catalan club rejected a loan bid for the left-back from Manchester United.

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Despite the hefty release clause, reports from Spanish outlet SPORT suggest Balde will be made available for around £34million in January, as he is currently behind Xavi Espart and João Cancelo in the pecking order at Camp Nou.

The 22-year-old has made 169 appearances for Barcelona, producing three goals and 21 assists, while earning seven caps for Spain.

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Deco gives verdict on Balde’s Barcelona future

Despite the links with a move away from Catalonia, Barca sporting director Deco maintained that Balde is part of the club’s future when speaking to RAC1 earlier in September.

"Nothing has happened, he's our player. He's 22 years old, has a bright future, and a contract with the best club in the world," he said.

"He has to fight for his place. He's had injuries, but two years ago he was spectacular. If this Balde is fit, it's unlikely he won't play for Barça.

"There was a lot of talk, but he's never expressed a desire to leave. Whether he plays or not isn't a decision for the sporting director."