Barcelona president keen to keep long-serving goalkeeper.
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Barcelona president Sandro Rosell says he is still hoping to persuade long-serving goalkeeper Victor Valdes to change his mind about leaving the club at the end of the season, according to Sky Sports.
The Spaniard has been at the Nou Camp for his entire career so far, but is looking to begin a new challenge once his current contract with the club expires next summer.
It was thought that he could leave during the summer transfer window just gone, with the likes of Monaco said to be monitoring his situation, but with Barca failing to bring in a replacement, Valdes has been kept as the club’s number one for another season.
The likes of Pepe Reina, Thibaut Courtois and even Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas have been linked as potential replacements for Valdes, but Rosell admits he would prefer it if the 31-year-old could be convinced not to leave the La Liga champions.
Talks have not begun yet, but Rosell says there is plenty of time for the club and the player to come to an agreement.
“I have tried to convince him to stay but I cannot tell you that we have met as yet,” he said.
“Of course, I have tried and he has not yet come off. I will certainly be trying again.
“We have a year left and that is a long time.”
Valdes has had a glittering career with Barcelona, winning six league titles and three Champions League titles since becoming first choice in 2003.