Balde, Barca's key to sign Ruben Neves

The winter transfer window is about to open its doors and the European teams are already rubbing their hands together. Although not all of them, as Barcelona, barring any last-minute departures, will not be able to make any signings due to their financial problems.

However, the board do want to tackle the issue of renewals as soon as possible. Alejandro Balde plays a very important role for the future of the club.

The extension of the academy player's contract will not be a problem and could even benefit a completely different operation. Both the full-back and Ruben Neves himself are represented by Jorge Mendes and, according to 'Marca', the possibility of signing the Portuguese is being considered using this option.

However, it will be Xavi who will make the decision. It is already well known that the Terrasa native prefers other options first, as well as the fact that Frenkie de Jong is being tipped as a natural replacement for Busquets.

The price-tag of the Portuguese is his main asset for him to end up landing at the Camp Nou, as he is cheaper than the rest of the candidates. However, nothing has been decided yet and there are many options that could arise in the future.