Barcelona are considering squad changes despite completing a summer overhaul under Hansi Flick.
The club invested €173 million in new signings, with Rodri arriving from Manchester City.
Joao Cancelo returned permanently, while Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi and Gabriel Jesus strengthened Barcelona’s attacking options.
Several established players departed as Barcelona worked to reduce wages and reshape Flick’s squad.
Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati left permanently, while Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Ronald Araujo and Marc Casado departed on loan.
Barcelona have made a perfect start to their La Liga title defence with three consecutive victories.
They beat Elche 5-0, Athletic Club 2-0 and Rayo Vallecano 5-2, with Lamine Yamal and Raphinha starting strongly.
However, Flick is already looking towards January and wants another departure from his squad.
According to El Nacional, Hansi Flick wants Barcelona to consider selling left-back Alejandro Balde during the January transfer window.
The German coach reportedly no longer sees Balde as an important part of his sporting plans at the club. Flick has concerns about Balde’s close relationship with Lamine Yamal.
The manager reportedly fears that Balde’s frustration over his reduced role could negatively influence Barcelona’s young winger.
Flick does not want another loan arrangement and instead wants Barcelona to pursue a permanent sale in January.
Sporting director Deco is aware that Balde still has a market, while agent Jorge Mendes could help identify a destination.
Barcelona would also want an attractive transfer fee before agreeing to sanction the defender’s departure.
Balde has lost prominence under Flick and struggled to secure regular minutes in the team.
The report states that Flick’s position is becoming increasingly firm as Barcelona prepare for the winter market.
If a suitable offer arrives in January, the coach wants the club to complete a permanent transfer.
Barcelona will therefore assess potential interest in Balde as they prepare for another squad decision.
Want to get the latest transfer news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.