The transfer market is on fire, and Barcelona has once again won a crucial battle. A young talent with great potential has decided to reject PSG and Luis Enrique. The reason: to be part of Joan Laporta and Hansi Flick's new project.
The Asturian coach, who is coming off a defeat in his last match, has received news he didn't expect. His top target to strengthen the Parisian squad has decided to sign for Barça. These are difficult hours for Luis Enrique, who has seen a key signing slip away.
Luis Enrique | @PSG_espanol
Laporta speeds up the market with strategic signings
Barça doesn't want to wait any longer. With Joan García already secured and Nico Williams about to be announced, the club is working on strengthening other priority positions. The full-back positions are, without a doubt, one of the main focuses.
The blaugrana sporting management is looking to bring in young profiles who can establish themselves in the short term. The idea is to find natural replacements for Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde. In that context, a highly desired gem by several of Europe's top clubs has emerged.
Balde in a match with Barça | @FCBarcelona
According to "e-Notícies", the player has already communicated directly with Luis Enrique. He has told him that he won't sign for PSG and that he has made the decision to play for Barça. The call was an unexpected blow for the coach of the European champion.
At Camp Nou, they're delighted with the response. After several weeks of work, the Catalan club has managed to convince the footballer. They've done so against fierce competition from PSG.
Luis Enrique | @LUISENRIQUE21
A bet on the future won by Barça
Barça had been following his progress for some time. The footballer has impressed everyone with his performance, maturity, and room for improvement. The coaching staff believe he can be key in the medium and long term.
Joan Laporta's priority was to secure his continuity. With that goal, contacts were accelerated and a total agreement was reached. The operation was carried out discreetly, avoiding leaks until the decisive moment.
Joan Laporta at a press conference | @jlaportaoficial
The young full-back will be part of the reserve team next season. However, there are already plans for him to take part in preseason with the first team. Hansi Flick has given his approval and wants to see him in action as soon as possible.
The club wants to go step by step, but with ambition. The idea is for the player to establish himself in Barça's system. If he shows he's ready, he'll get official minutes during the season.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona
The new duo that excites the fans
At Barça, they're convinced that this signing will form a stellar duo. Alejandro Balde and this young talent will share the spotlight at left-back. Jofre Torrents is also expected to have opportunities.
Luis Enrique has already accepted the loss. From the United States, where he's with PSG at the Club World Cup, he has received the call he didn't want to answer. His defensive target has decided to take another path.
The player who has said "no" to PSG is Alexander Walton. A 19-year-old left-back, developed at Gavà and established in Barça's Juvenil A. This season, he has played 40 matches and has been key to achieving the treble.
Walton will continue at Barça, renew his contract, and will have a reserve team spot. His goal is clear: to make the leap to the first team and become a reference point. Barça, now more than ever, believes in him.
