Barcelona Transfer News: Dani Alves Discusses Exit, Return Amid Juventus Rumours

Barcelona right-back Dani Alves has insisted his impending departure from the club is not a permanent one, dubbing himself a "Cule" and proclaiming "this is not a goodbye." 

Catalan newspaper Sport confirmed the Brazil international is set to leave the Camp Nou this summer after eight years with the Blaugrana, but he penned an open letter to fans to say he'll return one day. An extract read:

"

With this letter I am not saying goodbye, I just want you to know that I have taken the decision to look for a new challenge in my career, because eras - even those that are glorious - have to begin, be enjoyed and end at the right moment. And this is my moment. I am going, but I will be back, because I am another Cule. Thanks for making me feel so loved. 

"

Alves lists a selection of key highlights from his time at the club and said he felt "privileged" and "honoured" to have worked at the Camp Nou all these years with so much success.

The Brazilian will move on this summer, but after working under a raft of great coaches at Barca, perhaps a backroom staff role awaits him in the years to come.

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According to Sport, Alves will set sail for Juventus this summer—although the switch is yet to be confirmed. And while the defender has enjoyed his time at the club, it was recently revealed his departure may not be on the most amicable terms.

Alves' ex-wife and agent, Dinorah Santa Ana, was recently quoted by the Sun's Matt Heath-Smith and shed some more light on the player's exit and president Josep Maria Bartomeu's role: “I have called Bartomeu many times to explain Dani’s situation, but he will not answer the phone.”

The 33-year-old will leave after making 391 appearances for Barcelona since arriving from Sevilla in 2008, according to Transfermarkt. Alves has also featured in 422 La Liga matches since moving to Seville from Brazilian outfit Bahia in 2002.

He'll leave the Camp Nou regarded as one of the finest full-backs ever to grace the Primera Division and is what an attacking wing-back should be, as illustrated by Roma writer Julian De Martinis:

"

Dani Alves is certainly the greatest FB I've ever seen play. A sheer force of will, made human.

— Julian De Martinis (@JulianDM11) June 2, 2016"

Gianluca Di Marzio translator David Amoyal even went so far as to compare Alves to fellow Selecao compatriot Cafu:

Alves won a combined 23 titles during his eight-year stay in Catalonia, including three UEFA Champions League crowns, six Primera Division trophies, three FIFA Club World Cups, four Copa del Rey triumphs and much more.

Before departing for pastures new, the South American also made sure to note what it is that makes the club so special to him and the unity promoted at Barcelona: 

"

I could mention one, two or all of the extraordinary team-mates who I have had the pleasure to take overcome these challenges and difficulties with, but I prefer to give thanks to the collective, because the dressing room at Barça is not a place for individuals. Everyone wins, everyone loses. And we work together. And we all sail the ship, presidents, managers, coaching staff, people who work at the club… many thanks to all of them because I have always seen my efforts compensated with their confidence and support. 

"

After eight years within Barca's ranks, few will understand that sense of camaraderie like Alves, and his replacement will have a hard time living up to the legacy he leaves behind.