Liverpool line up move for 'perfect' £34 million star

Liverpool made a fair few changes to their squad during the summer transfer window.

This was obviously expected to happen after the Anfield outfit finished fifth in the Premier League during the 2025-26 campaign.

Indeed, they still managed to qualify for the Champions League but, if they'd have done any worse, Andoni Iraola's former team, Bournemouth, would have made it into Europe's premium competition instead of them.

This would have been a huge travesty but, fortunately for the Reds, they just about managed to qualify.

And, while additions have been made to Liverpool's squad, there's always room for improvement which is why the rumour mill seems to be constantly turning.

Liverpool want to make a move for Alejandro Balde in January

Liverpool may have only just signed Milos Kerkez for £40 million but, it already feels like he needs to be replaced.

Or, he at least needs to challenged by someone other than Kostas Tsimikas.

Both full-backs have been given a chance to prove their worth to Liverpool this season but, at least once in every game, they've managed to make a mistake.

So, with this in mind, it's hardly surprising to find out that fans want a new left-back to get brought to Anfield.

And now, it looks like Liverpool could be about to bring one in.

That is, if an update from 4-4-2 about Alejandro Balde is to be believed.

"The future of 22-year-old Spanish left-back Alejandro Balde at FC Barcelona appears quite uncertain.

"He is currently only third choice under coach Hansi Flick and hasn't played a single minute this season. Liverpool and Manchester United could make a move for him in the winter transfer window.

"According to information from 4-4-2.ch, Liverpool and Manchester United are monitoring developments very closely: Liverpool is looking for dynamism and freshness on the left side and is intensively studying the Spanish youngster.

"Barcelona's financial expectations are a hefty €40 million – the same valuation that was already on the table when Manchester first made inquiries in the summer.

"The Catalans are currently unwilling to go below this sum, although performance bonuses and a sell-on clause could be part of the deal.

"Balde is currently under contract until 2028. His strengths lie particularly in his speed, strong tackling, and stamina. He would probably be a perfect fit for England, where fast, counter-attacking football is the norm."

Alejandro Balde would be a solid signing for Liverpool

Liverpool's full-backs were an issue for them last season.

However, since Andy Robertson was still around and Dominik Szoboszlai filled the gap well at right-back, they just about managed to get through.

But, this season, things are a little different.

Even though Jeremy Jacquet and Ronald Araujo have been brought in, Liverpool's defence still isn't solid enough.

So, that's why someone such as Balde, who can play as a right-back or a left-back would be perfect.

This versatility coupled with his lightning-quick speed are just a couple of reasons why he'd fit the Reds well.

Indeed, the £34 million fee may seem a tad steep for a player who hasn't played a single minute of football for Barcelona this season but, since he's only 22 years old, there's plenty of time for him to grow into an even better player than he is.

Balde's age also correlates with Liverpool's recent transfer strategy of signing players who have potential to fulfil.

Obviously, nobody knows how things will end up panning out but, for now, Liverpool eyeing a move for Balde in January makes a lot of sense.