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Barcelona Could Offer Struggling Defender in Potential Swap Deal for Serie A Full-Back – report

Barcelona are reportedly exploring the possibility of using Alejandro Balde in a player-plus-cash arrangement to secure Juventus defender Andrea Cambiaso during the January transfer window. The Catalan club are looking to strengthen their full-back positions, and the Italian international has emerged as a potential addition to Hansi Flick’s squad.

According to a report by Barca Universal on Monday, November 2, 2026, Barcelona are considering offering Balde to Juventus as part of their efforts to reduce the financial cost of signing Cambiaso. The proposed arrangement could provide the Italian club with a replacement while allowing the Spanish side to address two separate squad situations.

Cambiaso has attracted Barcelona’s attention because of his ability to operate on either side of the defence. His versatility would give Flick more options when selecting his full-backs and adjusting the team's formation. The club are assessing their defensive requirements as they prepare for the second half of the campaign.

Meanwhile, Balde’s future at Camp Nou has reportedly become less certain. The 22-year-old is understood to have seen his importance reduced under Flick, prompting speculation that he could consider a move away from Barcelona. His situation has also attracted interest from Roma, who have reportedly explored the possibility of signing him on loan with an option to complete a permanent transfer.

Barcelona could therefore view the left-back as a useful bargaining asset in discussions with Juventus. Rather than paying the full amount demanded for Cambiaso, they could include Balde in their proposal and offer an additional cash payment to make the agreement more attractive.

However, negotiations may prove challenging because the clubs reportedly disagree over Cambiaso’s market value. Barcelona are believed to be considering an offer between €25 million and €30 million, while Juventus place a valuation of approximately €40 million on the 26-year-old.

Including Balde could help narrow that difference, particularly if Juventus regard the Spanish defender as a suitable addition to their squad. Such an arrangement would potentially benefit both teams by allowing them to address their respective recruitment needs without relying entirely on a substantial cash transfer

Cambiaso’s ability to cover both full-back positions remains central to Barcelona’s interest. His flexibility could be particularly valuable as Flick seeks greater depth and adaptability across the defensive line. The Italian’s experience at Juventus also makes him an appealing option for a club looking for immediate reinforcement.

Nevertheless, Barcelona would need to examine his fitness history before committing significant resources to the transfer. Cambiaso reportedly spent several weeks out of action because of an ankle injury, raising questions about his availability and physical condition. The Catalan club are expected to assess that situation carefully before advancing negotiations.

Competition could create another obstacle. Arsenal and Manchester City have reportedly been monitoring the defender, and interest from two financially powerful Premier League clubs could strengthen Juventus’ position during discussions.

With January approaching, Barcelona must weigh the potential benefits of the proposed exchange against their financial limitations, Cambiaso’s fitness record and competition from other suitors. Whether Balde ultimately becomes part of the negotiations will depend on the willingness of both clubs to agree on his valuation and the overall transfer package.