There was debate on Tuesday night that Alejandro Balde was Barcelona's best player in their dramatic win over Benfica, with the Catalan left-back in his best form since before a hamstring injury. There have been a string of reports in recent months that they are looking for a new left-back next summer.
With outsider Alphonso Davies set to remain at Bayern Munich, the Blaugrana appear intent on at least bringing in competition for Balde, if not another starter. Gerard Martin has come in this season after being promoted from Barca Atletic in the summer, but few see him as a long-term answer to the role.
One of the options they are convinced of is Benfica left back Alvaro Carreras. Likewise, the Spanish youngster was considered one of the best for the Portuguese giants at the Estadio da Luz against Barcelona. Sport says Carreras is loved by sporting director Deco and the club, but believes they are not prepared to achieve the numbers Benfica is asking for.
Benfica initially loaned Carreras from Manchester United and executed a €6 million purchase clause at the end. However, the 21-year-old's performances have attracted attention from across Europe, with Atletico Madrid monitoring his progress, as well as Juventus and Manchester United. Benfica is aware of this and has set the asking price for Carreras at 50 million euros.
United have a €25 million buyback option on Carreras, and a number of reports noted that the Red Devils were keen to exercise that clause. But since Ruben Amorim took over, those ties have faded somewhat. Barcelona currently have Alex Valle on loan to Celtic to return next summer, but it remains to be seen whether they consider him a strong alternative to Balde, and there is talk he could also join Como on loan in January.
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