AS Roma set key condition to sign out-of-favour Barcelona defender in January

It is known that Barcelona are considering the possibility of selling Alejandro Balde during the January transfer window, with AS Roma exploring a potential deal for the left-back as they look to generate funds for squad reinforcements.

On that note, according to Spanish publication SPORT, the Italian club are examining a paid loan with an obligation to buy that would become conditional on qualification for next season’s Champions League. 

Balde’s situation has attracted attention because Barcelona are assessing their options in the transfer market, with signing a central defender among Flick’s priorities. 

However, a potential departure is far from straightforward given the Catalan club’s €40 million valuation of the academy graduate.

Roma consider conditional purchase option for Balde

Roma’s proposed formula is designed to make the operation financially manageable. 

AS Roma are interested in signing Alejandro Balde. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)

Rather than paying Barcelona’s full asking price immediately, the Serie A side would initially secure Balde’s services on loan before triggering a purchase obligation if they qualify for the Champions League.

Such an arrangement would also give Barcelona an opportunity to generate revenue through a future permanent transfer.

However, the financial demands remain a significant obstacle, as Barcelona value the defender highly, meaning Roma would need to commit considerable resources to complete the operation in January itself.

Juventus and Premier League clubs join the race

Notably, Roma are not the only club monitoring Balde’s availability, as Juventus have also been following the defender, with their interest potentially influenced by uncertainty surrounding Andrea Cambiaso’s future in Turin.

The competition extends to England, where Liverpool, Aston Villa, Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham have all been linked with the Barcelona full-back. Monaco are another potential destination.

Barcelona value Alejandro Balde at €40 million. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

However, the financial structure of a potential transfer could determine which clubs remain realistic candidates. 

Barcelona value Balde at around €40 million and would prefer a permanent sale, although they are prepared to consider a loan arrangement that guarantees future income.

Barcelona to use Balde’s departure to fund January signing

Understandably, Balde’s possible departure is also connected to Barcelona’s recruitment plans. 

It is known that Flick wants additional defensive reinforcement, particularly a left-footed centre-back who could strengthen his options during the second half of the season.

Hence, selling an academy graduate would provide Barcelona with an opportunity to generate transfer income while potentially creating additional room within their wage structure.