Barca's jewel of Guinea-Bissau descent has been LaLiga's sensation since the start of the season

When a football legend like Xavi believes in you and puts you in Barcelona's starting XI at the expense of benching the club's mainstay, Jordi Alba, you are a pure gem. No doubt about it.

Alejandro Balde has already made five appearances for the LaLiga giants in the current campaign (making three assists in the process!), the same as the entire last season. Moreover, he has made two Champions League appearances and will probably see much more.

The 18-year-old was born in Spain to a Guinea-Bissau father and Dominican mother. He developed himself at legendary Barca's youth academy - La Masia - becoming one of the most promising left-backs in Europe. In the meantime, Balde was called up for the Spanish U-19 side and will probably become a senior international after the FIFA World Cup.

The Catalan defender renewed his contract in July 2021, and it won't expire until 2024, with a release clause set at half a billion euros!

According to Marca, Barcelona's intention are to extend a bond with Balde.

"There have already been contacts between the parties, but for now, they are stopped. There is no rush," reports Marca on Thursday.

Xavi is also full of praise for the youngster.

"Balde plays because he is doing very well. He has had a very good preseason and deserves to play. This is his moment. I am very happy for him, Balde is showing a great personality. He has a very good offensive ability. He is a spectacular boy, and he trains very well," said the former midfielder.