Barcelona Transfer News: Ernesto Valverde Discusses Rafinha Exit Rumours

Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde has discussed midfielder Rafinha's future amid speculation he could leave the club before the close of the transfer window.

The Brazilian has been in impressive form in pre-season, but Valverde said he is uncertain if the 25-year-old will stay, according to Marca (h/t Football Espana).

"I’m very happy with Rafinha’s impact in pre-season. He has played very well and integrated into the squad, but we are unsure what will happen as the window does not close until August 31. Personally, I want the market to close now so that I know my squad and which players I can count on for this season."

Rafinha spent the second half of last season on loan with Inter Milan. The loan also included an option for the Serie A side to sign the midfielder permanently for an initial €35 million (£31 million).

Rafinha enjoyed a successful spell at the San Siro and made 17 appearances. However, Inter opted not to take up the purchase option, and the Brazilian returned to the Camp Nou.

The Brazilian's father and agent, Mazinho, has said that his son "wanted to stay at Inter," per Calciomercato.com.

Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images

The Italian club have since reignited their interest after giving up on Real Madrid's Luka Modric, per Sport Mediaset (h/t Football Italia).

Barcelona director Ariedo Braida has said "it is very likely that Rafinha will stay," in an interview with Radio Sportiva (h/t Marca).

Valverde has afforded Rafinha plenty of game time in pre-season, largely due to the absence of many of the  team's regulars from their United States tour due to their 2018 FIFA World Cup commitments.

The 25-year-old seems to have made the most of the opportunity. He scored in the 2018 International Champions Cup defeat to Roma and in Barcelona's 3-0 win over Boca Juniors in the 2018 Joan Gamper Trophy.

ESPN FC's Samuel Marsden said he's impressed Valverde:

There has been plenty of change in the Barcelona midfield in recent months. Paulinho, Andres Iniesta and Andre Gomes have all departed, while Arthur and Arturo Vidal have arrived.

Barcelona also remain interested in Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba, according to Miguel Delaney at The Independent. However, they may have to wait to land the midfielder, as the Red Devils do not want to sell, per the report.

Rafinha looks as though he may have done enough to convince Valverde he deserves a place in his squad. Barcelona lacked strength in depth last season, so keeping hold of the midfielder looks a good move.