Barcelona are considering Juventus defender Andrea Cambiaso as a potential replacement for Alejandro Balde, whose future at the club has become uncertain ahead of the January transfer window.
According to a report from ESPORT3 , the Catalan side is exploring the possibility of bringing the Italian international to Camp Nou, with Balde potentially included in negotiations as part of a player-exchange arrangement.
Notably, strengthening the defensive flanks is among Barcelona's priorities for January, and Cambiaso's ability to operate on both sides, just like Joao Cancelo, makes him an attractive option for Hansi Flick.
However, the financial gap between the two clubs could complicate negotiations.
Balde's situation has become an important factor in Barcelona's defensive planning.
Alejandro Balde could leave Barcelona in January. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
The left-back has lost prominence under Flick and is considering his future , with Roma already showing interest in a loan deal that includes an option to buy.
Barcelona, however, could use his situation as part of negotiations with Juventus.
Including Balde in an exchange would offer the Catalans an opportunity to reduce the financial cost of signing Cambiaso while providing the Italian club with an immediate replacement at left-back.
According to the report, Barcelona would be willing to offer between €25 million and €30 million for Cambiaso, although Juventus are understood to value the 26-year-old at close to €40 million.
That difference is a significant obstacle, but Balde's potential inclusion could provide a way for the clubs to bridge the gap.
Barcelona see Andrea Cambiaso as Alejandro Balde's replacement. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
As stated before, Cambiaso's versatility is a major attraction. The Italian can operate on either flank, and that quality would give Flick greater flexibility when selecting his full-backs, particularly given Barcelona's recent defensive problems.
Cambiaso's recent physical problems are another consideration for Barcelona.
An ankle injury kept him out of action for several weeks, meaning the club would need to assess his fitness before committing to a substantial transfer.
Furthermore, competition could also make negotiations more difficult.
On that note, the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City are already monitoring the Juventus defender, potentially giving the Serie A club additional leverage when discussing his future.
