Jorge Mendes set to arrive in Barcelona with out-of-favour defender’s situation on the agenda | OneFootball

The transfer window may be closed, but superagent Jorge Mendes remains closely involved in FC Barcelona’s affairs.

The Portuguese representative is due to arrive in the Catalan capital today for a brief visit, with Alejandro Balde and Lamine Yamal among the players on his agenda.

Mendes set for whistle-stop Barcelona visit

Indeed, according to SPORT, Mendes is expected to arrive at around 14:00 local time at Barcelona’s private flight terminal.

The Portuguese agent will spend only a few hours in the city, where he has several commitments and meetings scheduled.

His visit is not, at least initially, specifically related to Barcelona, and no meeting with the club has been arranged.

However, a meeting could still take place spontaneously. Mendes enjoys an excellent relationship with the Catalan club and has been one of their most important allies in recent years, particularly during periods of financial difficulty.

Balde’s situation remains a priority

Alejandro Balde has fallen out of favour under Hansi Flick. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Whatever the main purpose of his trip, Mendes’ work is inevitably connected to the situation of his Barcelona clients. Alejandro Balde’s position is one that deserves particular attention.

The left-back has yet to enjoy the level of involvement he expected at the start of the season. During the final days of the transfer window, Balde spoke with Hansi Flick and made it clear that he wanted to stay and believed he could turn his situation around.

Balde remains convinced that he can rediscover the form that previously established him as one of Europe’s leading young left-backs.

The competition for his position, however, has become increasingly intense. Flick currently believes he has other options in better form, while the impressive performances of Xavi Espart have made it even harder for Balde to regain his place.

Lamine Yamal is enjoying a completely different situation

Mendes’ other major Barcelona client, Lamine Yamal, is in a very different position.

Ballon d’Or contender. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The forward is enjoying one of the best spells of his career and continues to strengthen his case for the Ballon d’Or with a series of outstanding performances.

Barcelona are delighted with Lamine’s form and his overall development. His situation has little in common with Balde’s, but he remains part of the group of players that keeps Mendes closely connected to the club’s day-to-day affairs.

Mendes’ trip to Barcelona is expected to be brief and is primarily linked to other commitments.

He will be in the city for only a few hours, but given the number of players he represents and his close relationship with Barcelona, his presence could still lead to important conversations.