Barcelona have been recently dealt a massive blow as star player Alejandro Balde has picked up a fresh injury, which will keep him out for at least three weeks.
Balde’s injury means he will not be available for the upcoming Copa Del Rey final against Real Madrid. The youngster will also miss some other key matches for Barcelona, thereby leaving Hansi Flick with no option but to put his faith in Gerard Martin.
Flick considering calling up Jofre Torrents
In light of Balde’s absence in the coming weeks, Flick is now considering calling up La Masia prospect Jofre Torrents to first-team training.
Flick’s plan is to allow the youngster to train with the first team in the coming weeks until the time Balde returns to training.
This is according to Moises Llorens of ESPN, who adds that Torrents will also be a part of Barcelona’s pre-season campaign this summer.
Currently plying his trade with Barcelona’s U19 setup, it is no secret that Torrents is regarded highly within the ranks at La Masia.
The youngster has shown immense potential, with many expecting him to soon knock on the door of the first team.
In fact, Balde’s injury could turn out to be an excellent opportunity for the young left-back to try and make an impact in first-team training, so that he can be considered by coach Flick.
Given the tight schedule, Flick would be open to having more options in the left-back position, especially given the fact that Martin is not a fully proven alternative to Balde.
For now, Torrents is in talks with Barcelona regarding a contract extension, which will secure the youngster’s long-term future in Catalonia.
