Victor Valdes writes open letter confirming Barcelona exit

Goalkeeper Victor Valdes has written an open letter confirming his departure from Catalan giants Barcelona.

The 32-year-old is available on a free transfer after deciding not to renew his contract at Camp Nou after 12 years with the club.

"Unfortunately, I wasn't able to say goodbye playing football, as I would have liked, but that's life at times, and this year has been a bit cruel to me in this regard," Valdes wrote.

The Spaniard expressed his gratitude towards his former managers Louis van Gaal, Frank Rijkaard, Pep Guardiola and Tito Vilanova in the letter.

Valdes added: "Thanks to all those colleagues with whom I have had the pleasure of sharing the work involved in carrying this crest on my chest every day, for making me feel important within this group we have formed over the years, because when it comes down to it, we are, here and now. Thank you gentlemen!

"And of course, I do not want to forget the most important for me, for the past 12 years as a professional person wearing this shirt, my loyal followers."

Monaco are believed to be favourites to sign the shot-stopper this season.