Barcelona is nearing a new, long-term contract with a promising player.

According to Sport, Barcelona and Alejandro Balde are nearing an agreement on a new contract.

The 19-year-old has emerged as Barcelona’s best player so far this season, beating out Marcos Alonso and Jordi Alba for a starting left-back position against stiff competition. Hector Bellerin has been replaced by him in recent weeks as a right-back.

After a strong preseason, Balde has made 16 appearances under Xavi Hernandez thus far. He was trusted to start El Clasico as well. Of them, 13 were starts.

He had a short appearance in the previous season and was thought to be too raw to make an impact right away, but this year, his growth has been swift and he has already contributed three assists.

As a result, Barcelona made contract negotiations a top priority. A agreement with agent Jorge Mendes is now practically complete. His new deal will keep him employed until 2027, and he will don the No. 12 jersey.

This news’ timing, only days after Gerard Pique’s retirement, is not a coincidence. Barcelona could have greater financial leeway to make moves in the next months thanks to the relief in their finances brought on by Pique’s departure.