There was an argument on Tuesday night that Alejandro Balde was Barcelona’s best player in their dramatic victory over Benfica, with the Catalan left-back in his best form since before a hamstring injury. There have been a solid number of reports in recent months that they are looking for another left-back next summer.
An outsider for Alphonso Davies, who seems set to stay at Bayern Munich, the Blaugrana seem determined to at least create competition for Balde, if not another starter. Gerard Martín has filled the role this season after winning promotion from Barça Atletic in the summer, but few consider him a long-term answer in the role.
Hansi Flick: “The best thing has been the mentality we have had, this is football and that’s why we love it.” pic.twitter.com/4blfv2Avzx
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) January 21, 2025
One of the options that convinces them is Benfica’s left back, Álvaro Carreras. Likewise, the young Spaniard was considered among the best of the Portuguese team at the Estadio da Luz against Barcelona. Sport affirms that Carreras is liked by sporting director Deco and the club, but considers that he is not willing to reach the figures requested by Benfica.
Benfica initially signed Carreras from Manchester United and ultimately executed a purchase clause of 6 million euros. However, the 21-year-old’s performances have attracted attention from across Europe, with Atletico Madrid another team watching his progress, as well as Juventus and Manchester United. Aware of this, Benfica’s asking price for Carreras is set at 50 million euros.
🚨 Xabi Alonso: “We want to reach the level of teams like Atlético and players like Griezmann or Julián. Champions League contenders? They could be there. In the playoffs, they are very competitive. His substitutes are top-level players. “This is one of their best teams in recent years.” pic.twitter.com/awWOcePPDE
— Universo Atlético (@architetturauniverse) January 22, 2025
United have a €25 million buy-back option on Carreras, and several reports noted that the Red Devils were interested in exercising that clause. However, since Rubén Amorim took power, those ties have dissipated somewhat. Barcelona have Alex Valle currently on loan at Celtic to return next summer, but it remains to be seen whether they consider him a strong alternative to Balde, and there is talk he could also join Como on loan in January.