Jorge Mendes reveals top European clubs made offers for 21-year-old Barcelona star before his renewal | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are enjoying a much-needed break during this hectic Christmas period, providing Hansi Flick with an opportunity to step back and reassess what has been a dismal season for the Catalan club so far.

Until October, everything seemed to be going Barcelona’s way. Every move they made turned to gold, and Hansi Flick appeared to be a coach unfamiliar with the concept of losing.

However, November and December have been chaotic months for the team. Despite creating a wealth of chances, Barcelona have struggled to secure victories, with injuries and inconsistency increasingly taking their toll on the squad.

The squad is currently brimming with young talent, and it’s understandable that it will take time for their project to reach an indomitable level. Among these promising youngsters is Alejandro Balde, who has been a consistent presence under Hansi Flick throughout this season.

Balde is represented by super-agent Jorge Mendes, who was recently questioned about his client’s future. The Portuguese agent effectively dismissed all rumors, stating that he expects the 21-year-old to remain in Catalonia for the long term.

When asked about the buzz surrounding him as quoted by Mundo Deportivo, here is what Mendes had to say. He said:

“What I can say is that before renewing with Barça, the best clubs in Europe wanted him, and Barça knows that. There’s no doubt about it. They were aware of the challenging financial situation at Barça and thought they could take advantage of it, but Barça made the right decision not to sell him despite receiving significant offers. There’s no question—he’s the best in his position.”

Mendes was then asked if he expects Balde to stay for a long time at Barcelona, like for example, Lamine Yamal is touted to. Here is what he said:

“Yes, just like Lamine, I see him staying at Barça for many years. And he’s a Barça player through and through (laughs).”

Although some may argue Mendes’ assessment that he is the best in his position, the truth is that Balde is a young talent with enormous potential. There are areas of his game that he needs to work on but at 21, that is natural.