Valdes keen to stay at Barcelona until 2014

 

The goalkeeper has made it clear that he has no plans to leave the Primera Division champions this summer

Victor Valdes has insisted that he does not want to leave Barcelona in the summer transfer window and intends to stay put until the end of his contract in June 2014.

The goalkeeper told Barca earlier this season that he does not want to extend his current deal, leading to speculation that he could be on his way out of the Liga champions this summer.

Monaco were believed to be keen to lure him to France, but the 31-year-old has now made it clear that he is keen to see out his contract at Camp Nou.

"I owe the fans an explanation as to why I will not renew my contract. Barcelona have given me everything and this has been home for 20 years," Valdes said at a press conference.

"The pressure as a goalkeeper is huge, though, at this club. I am exhausted psychologically and I feel that my cycle at the club ends in 2014. This is not about money.

"I feel honoured that the club want me to continue, but my decision is final. I will continue to wear the Barca jersey with honour until the final day of my contract.

"I want to stay until 2014, but I am open to discuss things with the club. I think that the club have enough time to find a good successor."

Valdes made his official first team debut in 2002-03 and has since made over 500 appearances for the club.