Benfica and Aston Villa have both expressed interest in signing Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde. According to Diario SPORT, the 22-year-old has tasked his agent, Jorge Mendes, with securing a move before the transfer window closes.

Barcelona’s Position
Reports indicate that coaches Hansi Flick and Deco do not view Balde as a priority. The club is focusing on bringing back João Cancelo to strengthen their defense. Balde’s decreased importance to the team, coupled with his openness to a transfer, marks a significant shift in his situation.

Benfica’s Proposal
Benfica has tabled an offer of approximately €20 million for Balde. However, Barcelona's expectations regarding his valuation pose a challenge. To reconcile these differences, creative sell-on clauses may be necessary to meet both parties' needs.

Villa and Manchester United
Aston Villa continues to seek a high-caliber left-back, but any potential move for Balde hinges on the club's ability to generate late transfer funds via player sales. Additionally, Manchester United has been linked to Balde, but formal contact has not yet been established by Michael Carrick’s side.

What Happens Next
The situation revolves around Benfica's offer and Barcelona’s valuation, while Villa's interest is contingent on financial maneuvers. As the transfer window approaches its end, the dynamics of this potential transfer continue to evolve.