According to a report from Fichajes, Barcelona are preparing to make a late signing to replace the injured Balde. They have already set their sights on Manchester City's Sergio Gomez, as Pep Guardiola could let the 23-year-old go and let the Catalans take him at a reasonable price.
Barcelona looking for a new left-back?
Barcelona, like many other top clubs, have suffered crucial injuries they can afford and Alejandro Balde has recently been the victim. After already losing Gavi due to a season-reimbursable knee problem, the Catalans may also be losing the electric left-back, leaving them in trouble for the remainder of the season.
Balde will undergo surgery to repair a problem with the biceps femoris muscle in his right leg, which could keep him unavailable for the remainder of the season. With a few days left in the January window, Barcelona are desperate to find a replacement, Chelsea's Marc Cucurea, Real Betis' Juan Miranda and, more interestingly, Manchester City's Sergio Gomez.
Other options are beyond Barcelona's financial capabilities, but they could launch a final raid on Gomez. The 23-year-old has also piqued Chelsea's interest with a potential replacement for Marc Cucurea, who remains injured until March. However, it is reported that Pep Guardiola has not used the Spaniard very often, as he may open his departure.
Gomez still has nine appearances this season and does not represent the €15 million that City paid 18 months ago. Pep Guardiola already has Gvardiol and Ake who can play at left-back, as the Spaniard has little to offer the Catalans what fits his system.
Can Barcelona afford Sergio Gomez?
The report explains why Barcelona have been able to make new signings despite their current financial situation. Clubs can take advantage of Article 77 of La Liga Rules. The report explains that Barcelona could spend around €5.4 million on new signings in this window, so they could be looking to sign the 23-year-old Manchester City left-back.
However, this quest leaves Barcelona with a lot of challenges, as only Gomez seems to be a viable target for them in the current environment. Manchester City are unlikely to be able to sell him well below his market, which could lead the Catalans to turn to a potential loan deal for the 23-year-old.