Manchester City could find a use for Joao Cancelo in 2024 amid doubts surrounding Alejandro Balde at Barcelona.
That is according to SPORT.
So, what is the situation involving Joao Cancelo and Alejandro Balde for Manchester City fans to digest? Let’s take a look…
Manchester City could swap Joao Cancelo
Well – according to a separate story by SPORT – Barcelona would like to sign the Portugal international permanently in 2024, but might struggle to afford Manchester City’s €30m (£26m) asking price.
Now – however – a solution could be found involving Balde, according to SPORT‘s latest update.
The Spanish news outlet believe Manchester City admire the Spain international and have asked to be kept informed on his situation, with Chelsea and Manchester United also on red alert.
However, Pep Guardiola seemingly holds an advantage over Mauricio Pochettino and Erik ten Hag, as SPORT believe a swap deal involving Cancelo and Balde cannot be ruled out, due to Barcelona’s financial struggles.
The Manchester City loanee has made a real impact at the Camp Nou, and Barcelona are said to be delighted at having finally found a solution to their ongoing right-back problem.
Amid a time where Xavi has been leaving Balde out of his starting XI, SPORT believe the two full-backs could now be swapped in 2024.
It represents a surprise development in the Spaniard’s career at Barcelona, as he only recently signed a new contract back in September which included a €1bn (£868m) release clause.
Alejandro Balde swap would be ideal for Manchester City
In our view, a swap deal involving Balde and Cancelo would be perfect for Manchester City.
Guardiola and Txiki Begiristain appear to be focused on signing a natural left-back in 2024, judging by a number of reports, and the Barcelona No.3 is one of the most exciting options around.
In a hypothetical world where Barcelona have no financial problems, it is highly unlikely that Balde would be on the market.
Therefore, with Cancelo surplus to requirements after ruining his relationship with Guardiola, this seems like an ideal solution for Manchester City.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as anything could happen in 2024.
