Barcelona identify first departures in January

Barcelona are considering sacrificing defender Alejandro Balde during the upcoming winter transfer window, as the club's management seeks to generate funds to sign a new center-back, according to the Spanish newspaper Marca . The newspaper explained that Balde, 23, has become the most likely candidate to leave the team in January, after his role diminished under German coach Hansi Flick, who is no longer convinced by the player's performances . Barcelona are looking to strengthen their defense, especially given their struggles with injuries this season, but the club's financial situation may force them to sell one of their players before making new signings . Flick and sporting director Deco want to bring in a center-back who can truly make a difference to the team, rather than signing a player simply to increase their options . Balde's situation has noticeably declined after being a key player in Barcelona's lineup. He hasn't started a single match under Flick this season, and the coach even preferred Bryan Farinas against Deportivo Alavés in a 6-1 victory, before bringing Balde on for about 30 minutes in the second half . Competition for the left-back position is intensifying with the presence of João Cancelo and Xavi Espart, while reports indicate Flick is dissatisfied with some aspects of Balde's performance in training . Despite this, the player doesn't seem keen on leaving, having rejected a move away from the club last summer, and he still hopes to regain his coach's trust . Selling Balde, a product of Barcelona's academy, would be a significant decision for the club, given his young age and the role he previously played with the first team.