Barcelona homegrown star gets major boost after Real Madrid complete another defensive deal | OneFootball

Alejandro Balde’s situation at Barcelona appears to have taken a significant turn in recent days. 

According to a report from SPORT, Marc Cucurella’s move to Real Madrid has effectively strengthened Balde’s position at the Catalan club and reduced uncertainty surrounding his future.

For several weeks, Barcelona had been linked with a possible move for Cucurella as the club evaluated options at left-back. 

Those rumours inevitably raised questions about Balde’s long-term role, especially after a challenging period that saw the academy graduate lose momentum both at club and international level.

Now, however, the landscape has changed dramatically. 

With Cucurella choosing Real Madrid, Balde has been handed a valuable opportunity to prove that he remains the right solution for Barcelona’s left flank.

Cucurella transfer changes Barcelona’s plans

Cucurella has decided to sign for Real Madrid. (Photo by Manuel Velasquez/Getty Images)

It must be remembered that Barcelona never viewed the left-back position as the most urgent issue to address this summer, despite the speculation surrounding Cucurella.

The Spanish international had been open to returning to Spain, and his name frequently surfaced as a potential replacement for Balde. 

However, the prolonged uncertainty over Barcelona’s plans ultimately pushed Cucurella towards a move elsewhere, with Real Madrid securing his signature.

That outcome has significant implications for Balde, as while Barcelona are working on multiple transfer operations, the club now appears prepared to continue trusting the La Masia talent rather than entering the market for a new starting left-back.

Balde facing important pre-season

Despite this positive development, the outlet assures that Balde’s position cannot be considered completely untouchable. 

Balde’s future seems secured for now. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Like several members of the squad, he could still become involved in transfer discussions if the right offer arrives.

However, the defender’s current intention remains to stay at Barcelona and fight for his place.

Since Balde has missed out on the World Cup squad, he will enjoy a different summer compared to many of his Barcelona teammates currently involved in international duty. 

Without World Cup commitments, he is expected to return to the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper on July 13 for the start of pre-season preparations.

That extra time could prove crucial as he looks to rebuild confidence and re-establish himself within Hansi Flick’s plans.