Sergi Roberto is staying at Barcelona despite Man Utd interest - Ernesto Valverde

BARCELONA boss Ernesto Valverde has insisted Manchester United target Sergi Roberto will not be sold this summer.

Sergi RobertoGETTY

Sergi Roberto is reportedly unhappy at Barcelona and wants to be a starter

Sergi Roberto has been linked with a move to Manchester United this month amid reports he is unsettled at the Nou Camp.

The midfielder is said to be unhappy due to his lack of game time and the Red Devils are reportedly willing to match his £36.5million release clause.

However, Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde has poured cold water on the deal claiming he is relying on Roberto this season.

“Of course, I am absolutely counting on him," the Barca boss told Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo.

Sergi RobertoGETTY

Sergi Roberto is reportedly a target for Manchester United

Sergi Roberto shows his magnificent touch and vision

“In some games he will be a major player and in some games no, but he remains an important player.

"How important, depends on each game during the season.

"He is a versatile player who trains fantastic.

"You ask me about him and Sergi Samper, both are doing well from the point of view of training."

Roberto is a versatile midfielder who was largely deployed as a right-back last season by Luis Enrique.

He made 47 appearances in all competitions and scored the winning goal in the 6-5 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

His current deal at the Nou Camp runs until June 2019.

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