Left-back decision looms large in final week of the window

Barcelona have just seven days left to finalize their squad for the 2026-27 campaign, and the final stretch of the transfer market could bring significant movement at the back. With Alejandro Balde's future up in the air, reports indicate that the club have already identified a potential successor in RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba.

Balde was left out of the Barcelona squad to face Elche by manager Hansi Flick, and the omission has immediately fuelled speculation. ESPN report that Manchester United are in the market for a new left-back and have made Barcelona aware of their interest in the Spain international.

United had earlier enquired about Newcastle's Lewis Hall over the summer, but club sources are playing down the chances of securing Balde. Even so, the English club's pursuit keeps the Catalan outfit's attention firmly focused on their academy graduate's situation.

Castello Lukeba: Flick's preferred replacement

Should Balde move on, Barcelona could quickly turn to Castello Lukeba to fill the void. According to The Athletic, Flick is a "big admirer" of the 23-year-old, who has impressed during his time at RB Leipzig.

Lukeba's versatility is considered a major asset in any potential Barcelona transfer, given his ability to operate both at left-back and as a center-back. That flexibility would give Flick additional options in a defensive unit that has been prone to injury and rotation.

A fast-moving week ahead

The coming days will be decisive for Flick's squad. Barcelona are weighing up whether to cash in on Balde or hold firm, with the outcome shaping the remainder of their transfer business. Whether Lukeba arrives at Camp Nou in the next week will depend on how swiftly the left-back situation is resolved.

Would you like to see Barcelona go for Castello Lukeba if Alejandro Balde departs? The club's supporters will surely have their say in the weeks ahead as the window enters its final phase.