AS Roma Explore Loan Deal with Buy Option for Barcelona Defender Alejandro Balde
Alejandro Balde’s future at Barcelona is becoming increasingly uncertain, with AS Roma reportedly exploring a possible January move for the 23-year-old left-back.
The Spanish defender has struggled to secure regular playing time under Hansi Flick this season, making only a limited contribution across his four appearances. His lack of minutes has fuelled speculation that he could leave the Catalan club during the winter transfer window.
Several clubs are reportedly monitoring his situation, with Roma now emerging as a potential destination.
AS Roma Interested in Signing Balde
According to reports from Italy, relayed by Esport3, AS Roma are considering a move for Balde ahead of the January transfer window.
The Serie A side, managed by Gian Piero Gasperini, are looking to strengthen their defensive options and have identified the Barcelona academy graduate as a possible addition.
The report claims Roma are exploring a loan agreement until the end of the season, with an option to make the transfer permanent included in the deal.
Such an arrangement could offer Balde an opportunity to secure more regular football while allowing Roma to assess his performances before committing to a permanent transfer.
However, reaching an agreement with Barcelona could prove complicated.
Barcelona Want at Least €40 Million for Balde
Barcelona would reportedly prefer to secure a permanent transfer if Balde leaves in January.
The club are said to value the defender at a minimum of €40 million, with Manchester United and Chelsea also previously linked with an interest in his situation.
Although Barcelona have not completely ruled out a loan departure, their preference would be for any temporary agreement to include a mandatory purchase obligation rather than a simple option to buy.
That requirement could create difficulties for Roma, whose reported proposal currently involves an optional purchase clause.
Balde’s salary could also become another obstacle for the Italian club, potentially complicating negotiations further.
Juventus Defender Andrea Cambiaso Could Influence Balde’s Future
Roma are not the only possible destination being discussed for the Barcelona defender.
Another scenario involves Juventus left-back Andrea Cambiaso, with reports suggesting Barcelona could consider using Balde as part of a potential exchange deal.
Cambiaso has previously been linked with the Catalan club, and including Balde in negotiations could provide Barcelona with an alternative route to strengthening their defensive options.
For now, however, there is no confirmed agreement involving either Roma or Juventus.
Flick Explains Balde’s Lack of Playing Time
Despite the transfer speculation, Balde is still fighting to regain his place in Flick’s plans.
Barcelona have experienced several defensive absences through injury, potentially creating opportunities for the left-back to increase his involvement.
However, João Cancelo’s current form has made competition for the position particularly difficult.
Flick addressed Balde’s situation ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League meeting with Aston Villa, acknowledging that a lack of regular appearances can affect a player's confidence.
“What’s happening to him is normal; when you don’t play often, you lack confidence. I see him training well, but we have to decide what’s best for the team, and João Cancelo is in great form,” Flick said.
The Barcelona manager also revealed that he had spoken directly with Balde and wanted to help him regain his confidence.
“When I say he lacks confidence, I know it can affect him, and I spoke to him after the last press conference. I respect him a lot; he’s young, but he’s a great person and a very hard worker. I’ll help him regain his confidence.”
January Could Decide Balde’s Barcelona Future
Balde’s situation presents Barcelona with an important decision ahead of the winter transfer window.
The club must weigh the defender’s long-term potential against his current lack of involvement and the financial considerations surrounding a possible departure.
Roma’s reported interest could develop into a concrete proposal, but Barcelona’s preference for a permanent sale or a loan with a mandatory purchase clause may determine whether negotiations progress.
For Balde, the immediate priority remains earning Flick’s trust and securing more minutes. Whether he manages to revive his Barcelona career or moves elsewhere in January remains an open question.