Balde asks Mendes to find new club as Benfica, Villa and United circle Barcelona left-back

Alejandro Balde has asked his agent Jorge Mendes to find him a new club before the transfer window closes, with Benfica, Aston Villa, and Manchester United all registering interest in the Barcelona left-back, according to Diario SPORT.

Benfica have already submitted a formal proposal of around €20 million, though Barcelona’s valuation sits higher than that figure. The report indicates that creative sell-on clauses would be needed to bridge the gap between the two clubs’ expectations.

Balde’s situation at Barcelona has shifted this summer. Head coach Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco do not consider the 22-year-old a priority, with the club instead focused on securing the return of João Cancelo to reinforce the left side of their defence. That reduced standing, combined with Balde’s own openness to a departure, has accelerated the speculation around his future.

Aston Villa are also in the picture, though their ability to pursue a deal depends on generating funds through outgoing transfers before the window shuts. Any move from Villa Park is therefore conditional on sales being completed first.

Manchester United have been linked with Balde as well, though Michael Carrick’s side are yet to make formal contact with Barcelona, according to the same reporting.

With Benfica’s offer on the table and Barcelona holding firm on their valuation, the coming days are likely to determine whether a deal can be structured. Villa’s financial flexibility and United’s level of concrete interest remain the key variables as the deadline approaches.