Milan Weigh January Swoop for Barcelona Outcast Balde as Injury Crisis Deepens

FolioPitch.com – 06 October 2026 | AC Milan could revive interest in Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde after Saelemaekers and Estupiñán injuries have left the squad dangerously thin on the flanks, according to reports from Italy and Spain. The Rossoneri are monitoring the 22-year-old left-back, who has fallen out of favor at Camp Nou under Hansi Flick. With Pervis Estupiñán and Alexis Saelemaekers both sidelined, Milan’s options out wide have been reduced to bare bones, prompting sporting director Geoffrey Moncada to consider a January move for the Spanish international.

Balde, once considered one of the most promising full-backs in Europe, has played just 12 minutes this season. His only appearance came as a late substitute against Racing Santander in a match that was already decided. The arrival of João Cancelo and the emergence of Xavi Espart, a natural right-back, have pushed Balde further down the pecking order. Barcelona, dealing with their own injury crisis—Andreas Christensen is out—are reportedly open to selling Balde in the winter window to fund a move for a center-back. That development has alerted Milan, who could revive interest in Barcelona’s Balde after Saelemaekers and Estupiñán injuries have exposed a critical lack of depth.

Milan’s interest is not new. In late August, super-agent Jorge Mendes offered Balde to the Rossoneri shortly after the arrival of Diego Moreira. At the time, Milan turned down the opportunity due to Barcelona’s €40 million asking price and because the club’s priorities were a center-back and an attacking midfielder. However, a lower fee or a more flexible deal structure—perhaps a loan with an option to buy—could change the calculus. Balde’s contract runs until June 2028, giving Barcelona some leverage, but his lack of playing time has diminished his market value.

The competition for Balde’s signature is expected to be fierce. Juventus are also in the market for a left-back and are keen to give new coach Luciano Spalletti the defensive reinforcement he requested in the summer. Manchester United, who pursued Balde extensively before the transfer window closed, are expected to return with a renewed bid. Milan, however, may have an advantage: the player’s desire for regular first-team football ahead of a potential international call-up. Balde is eager to prove his worth and secure a spot in Spain’s squad for upcoming tournaments.

For Milan, the need is urgent. Estupiñán’s injury, suffered in the recent Serie A clash against Inter, is expected to keep him out for several weeks. Saelemaekers, who has been deployed as a wing-back, is also facing a spell on the sidelines. Their absence leaves Ruben Amorim with limited choices on the left flank, forcing him to rely on makeshift solutions. The Portuguese coach has already experimented with Theo Hernández in a more advanced role, but the Frenchman’s defensive frailties have been exposed. A natural left-back like Balde would provide balance and attacking thrust.

Balde’s profile fits Milan’s needs perfectly. He is fast, technically gifted, and capable of playing as a wing-back or a traditional full-back. His ability to overlap and deliver crosses would complement Milan’s attacking talents, such as Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic. Moreover, at 22, he represents a long-term investment. The Rossoneri have a history of revitalizing young players who have struggled at bigger clubs, and Balde could follow in the footsteps of Theo Hernández, who flourished after arriving from Real Madrid.

However, any deal would require careful negotiation. Barcelona’s financial situation is well documented, and they are eager to raise funds to strengthen their defense. Yet they are also aware of Balde’s potential and may demand a significant fee. Milan, for their part, are unlikely to meet the original €40 million valuation. A structured deal, perhaps with performance-related add-ons, could bridge the gap. The coming weeks will be crucial as the January window approaches. Milan could revive interest in Barcelona’s Balde after Saelemaekers and Estupiñán injuries have made his acquisition a priority.

In conclusion, Milan’s pursuit of Alejandro Balde is a logical response to their current injury crisis. The club’s ability to secure a deal will depend on their willingness to negotiate creatively and fend off competition from Juventus and Manchester United. If successful, Balde could become a key figure in Milan’s push for silverware this season and beyond. The next few months will reveal whether the Rossoneri can finally land a player they once rejected.