Hamstring operation sidelines Barca defender Balde for rest of season

MADRID, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- FC Barcelona may have to make a late move in the transfer market to sign a left back after Spain international Alejandro Balde needs an operation on the hamstring injury he suffered in their Copa del Rey defeat away to Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday night.

Balde had to limp out of the game after just over 25 minutes and the club on Saturday confirmed the worst fears with a communique.