Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde is close to agreeing a new long-term contract with the club after establishing himself as a key player for Xavi this season.

Balde, 19, has displaced long-standing first-choice left-back and vice-captain Jordi Alba, making 30 La Liga appearances this campaign. According to Spanish newspaper SPORT writer Ferran Correas, the Spanish international will extend his contract with the new La Liga champions until 2027.

Alejandro Balde extends deal at Nou Camp until 2027

Balde’s breakthrough into the Barcelona first team this season is seen as one of the many bold decisions manager Xavi Hernandez has got right, with his side winning their first La Liga title in four years with four games to spare on Sunday.

The teenager’s attacking threat down the left-hand side was finally rewarded with his first league goal of the season at the weekend during Barca’s 4-2 win at Espanyol and his new contract will reportedly include a release clause worth an eye-watering $1.08b.