Overview
- Flick omitted Alejandro Balde from Barcelona’s matchday squad for the 5-0 win at Elche after telling the player he did not seem fully committed and advising him to ‘clear his mind’, a move reported by multiple outlets.
- Reports say three offers have been presented for Balde, with Manchester United widely described as the frontrunner, though the player has told agents he prefers to fight for his place and feels pushed out.
- Hansi Flick has identified RB Leipzig centre-back Castello Lukeba as his preferred defensive target, according to Gerard Romero and follow-up reports.
- Sources say Leipzig’s control of Lukeba’s contract through 2029 gives the club leverage that could push a fee above €50m, and Barcelona have made clear any move for Lukeba will wait until striker business is resolved and funds are secured.
- Barcelona are actively selling to fund reinforcements — the club aims to generate about €100m from a handful of exits before the window closes, a strategy that will shape whether Balde leaves, a striker arrives, or a defender is signed.