Alejandro Balde has now signed a new contract at Barcelona – after Manchester City failed with a summer bid.
It was Mundo Deportivo who claimed that the Citizens made an offer for the Barcelona No.3 back in July.
So, what is the latest on Alejandro Balde after Manchester City tried to sign him? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well – according to Mundo Deportivo – the Spain international had no interest in moving to the Etihad Stadium as he wanted to stay at Barcelona, and Xavi also wanted to sort out a new contract for the defender.
That story now appears to have been accurate, as Balde finally commits himself to Barcelona with an official contract extension.
The 19-year-old has signed a new deal running until June 2028, which also includes a €1bn (£865m) release clause.
Fabrizio Romano also revealed that Manchester City made contact to sign Balde during the summer transfer window.
Speaking on YouTube, the reliable Italian journalist said: “From what I heard, this summer, it was early, it was the end of April, beginning of May so the very early stages of the summer transfer window, Manchester City asked for information about Balde.”
Alejandro Balde is not the only Barcelona player Manchester City wanted
Interestingly, Manchester City tried to sign another Barcelona player as well as Balde this summer – Lamine Yamal.
That was according to journalist David Sanchez on Radio Marca, who claims that the Citizens sent an enquiry.
Unfortunately for Pep Guardiola, the aforementioned Romano believes Barcelona are now going to focus on tying Yamal down to a new contract as well, after the 16-year-old enjoyed a meteoric rise into the first team.
Therefore – unless any shock developments at the Camp Nou occur – we highly doubt Manchester City will get their hands on Balde or Yamal anytime soon.
