French defender Jeremy Mathieu has hit out at Valencia president Amadeo Salvo after a break in promise stopped him from joining Barcelona.
The Catalan side have held a long term interest in Mathieu which has further developed this summer as their need to sign a recognised centre-back continues, following the retirement of Carles Puyol.
Barca boss Luis Enrique was keen to discuss a move with the Frenchman with his release clause due to be paid, but Mathieu has since claimed that Valencia are halting a move, going back on promise they made.
“I want to step out of various reports. At no time did I intend to get into a confrontation with Valencia due to the love and respect that I have for the club and its magnificent fans,” he wrote, according to Marca.
“[Moving to Barca] is a reward for my hard work, my effort, and is a unique opportunity that any player would like to take.
“I came to Valencia for five seasons and this move would be a benefit to all parties involved. I think it’s time to step up and close a cycle in a team I will always carry in my heart and I will always be grateful no matter what.
“I ask Valencia and the President, who understands the situation, to negotiate my way out now I have the opportunity to play for the world’s largest club and that’s all I want now. I can’t forget all Valencia have given me and I want to leave in the best way possible.
“When I renewed with Valencia last season, the President promised me a way out if there was a good deal for me, as is currently the case.
“I always carry Valencia in my heart and on my skin but I would like to experience this challenge, which is the culmination of my career.”