Liverpool are reportedly considering a January move for Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde as new manager Andoni Iraola weighs up changes to his squad.
The Premier League club are expected to assess both their defence and midfield during the winter transfer window, with Balde emerging as a potential priority target.
Liverpool target Alejandro Balde for January move
Barcelona are believed to value the 22-year-old Spain international at around €40 million. He was linked with Manchester United during the summer, although that move did not materialise after the Catalan club indicated that they wanted a permanent transfer.
Liverpool already have Milos Kerkez and Kostas Tsimikas competing for the left-back position, but there are reportedly doubts over whether either player can deliver the consistency Iraola is seeking.
Balde would offer an additional attacking option from full-back and is understood to fit the profile of player the new manager wants to bring into his plans.
The defender is reportedly unlikely to play regularly at Barcelona, making a move to the Premier League a potentially attractive option. Liverpool could provide him with more regular playing time if he can establish himself in England.
Balde has demonstrated his quality in La Liga and is regarded as possessing the technical attributes to adapt to English football. Barcelona, meanwhile, would hope to recoup a significant fee from his departure.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool and Barcelona can reach an agreement over a transfer in the coming months.
