When Valdes announced in January 2013 that he would not be extending his contract with Barcelona it sent shockwaves around Europe. The fact that anyone would want to break ties with one of the world's most successfully teams bemused fans across the globe. Moreover, the fact that the Catalan giants were Valdes' boyhood team made his desire to leave all the more confusing. However, the goalkeeper claimed that he had a desire to experience a new club and culture. Having won every honour possible with Barcelona, the Spaniard clearly has an appetite to achieve success in another country. Speaking at the time, Barcelona Sporting Director Andoni Zubizeretta confirmed it was "an irrevocable decision." He added: "He is committed to his jersey until June 30, 2014 and will defend the goal with everything he has." The 31-year-old has done just that, putting in numerous impressive performances, so much so that some believe he should usurp Iker Casillas as Spain's No1. With such a high quality goalkeeper available on a free, understandably Europe's giants are looming. Both PSG and Manchester City have expressed an interest, with the latter still uncertain about Joe Hart's long-term position at the club. Where Valdes goes remains to be seen, but what is for certain is that someone is going to be getting an incredible talented goalkeeper - and for free.
Simon is an NCTJ qualified sports journalist. He has conducted interviews with Tony Adams and Peter Shilton, while also having work published in The Daily Telegraph and The Sun. Follow him on Twitter via @sr_collings.
