Barcelona's season is entering a decisive phase. Hansi Flick has already spoken about the need for a "reset" after the tough Copa del Rey setback against Atletico Madrid and the subsequent league defeat in Girona, marked by refereeing controversy. A scenario the club is analyzing closely and that has generated some disbelief, but which does not obscure the essential: FC Barcelona is obliged to raise its level if it wants to stay in the fight for all titles.

One of the names in these recent matches is Alejandro Balde. The left back has not quite reached his best form during an inconsistent period for FC Barcelona. He struggled at the Metropolitano, where much of the local danger was generated down the left flank, and in Girona, Hansi Flick opted for Gerard Martin at fullback instead of Balde.

At 22, Balde remains considered a strategic piece for his physical power and ability to cover the flank, though this season he has not consistently displayed the game-changing level that established him as undroppable.

Balde's influence on the game has considerably diminished after suffering a new hamstring injury in September, a recurring muscle problem that seems to have undermined his confidence and his physical ability to make the speed runs that characterized him.

The statistics reflect a much more conservative and erratic player, with an alarming lack of precision in his crosses and a defensive passivity that was exposed in the recent February defeat to Atletico Madrid, where he was substituted after a very poor performance.

While he works to recover his best form, interest from a Premier League heavyweight is being reported from England. According to information from the specialized website 'TEAMtalk,' Manchester United is considering making an offer for the Barca defender. The Old Trafford entity, led by Michael Carrick, could put an offer of around €40 million on the table.

With a contract in force until 2028 and a release clause of €1 billion, Barcelona maintains a position of strength in any hypothetical negotiation. Balde, who has 32 appearances and three assists in the current campaign, still has a market despite not going through his brightest moment.

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