Ernesto Valverde: 'Sergi Roberto important for Barcelona'

Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde has again played down suggestions that Sergi Roberto could leave the club this summer.

Earlier this month, it was claimed that Manchester United were prepared to activate Roberto's £36m release clause in a bid to bring the versatile midfielder to Old Trafford.

Meanwhile, it has since been reported that the arrival of Brazilian midfielder Paulinho will see Premier League target Roberto depart Camp Nou before the end of the transfer window.

Valverde, however, has insisted that he will 'absolutely count on Roberto this season'.

"Sergi Roberto is important for our team. We count on him absolutely for this season," Valverde told reporters.

Barcelona will travel to Real Madrid for the second leg of the Spanish Super Cup on Wednesday night looking to overturn a 3-1 first-leg deficit.