GEPA – USA TODAY Sports
Spanish keeper Victor Valdes has told his club Barcelona that he will leave when his contract expires in June 2014.
However, it is his representatives that have confirmed this news to the public. The Spanish press have reported the news as follows:
“Victor Valdés’ agents informed FC Barcelona in a meeting earlier this afternoon of the player’s irrevocable decision not to extend his contract, meaning negotiations over his salary will not be entered into”.
Valdes is 31-years old, will be 34 when that time comes in 2014, which suggests that he will join a new club rather than consider retirement. Having played for Barcelona his whole career, Valdes has won 5 La Liga titles and 3 Champions League since 2002.
He has become a cult figure at the Nou Camp and is regarded as one of the best keepers in Spain, if not the world.
However, on the international stage, he has long been in the shadow of Real Madrid‘s Iker Casillas.
“Keeping goal for Barça is tough in all senses… for many years”.
It may be early news now, but the rumours regarding his future club will truly begin as we near 2014. At the majority of clubs, such a statement would cause conflict as well as the player being sold, but Barcelona have massive funds and stability which respects such news.
However, Barca may chose to look for a new long-term keeper plan, and their brilliant youth academy will no doubt provide plenty of options for Tito Vilanova.
By Stowe Gregory @stowegregory
