Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde has done little wrong in his fledgling career in Catalonia,  but since last September, has been mentioned as a potential money-making exit. Going into next season though, he has the assurance of Xavi Hernandez and his staff that he will be key.

The 20-year-old was forced to undergo surgery early in 2024, but had lost his place to Joao Cancelo before that at left-back, as he struggled to repeat a brilliant first campaign in the first team. Nevertheless, Sport say that with Xavi keen to have multiple options in every position, Balde is set for a key role next season, and has the full faith his manager.