Valencia refuse to lower asking price for Jordi Alba

Mauricio Pellegrino has told Barcelona that Valencia will not sell full-back Jordi Alba for less than the club's £12m asking price, according to reports.

Barcelona, who are understood to be in the market for a left-back, have also been linked with Tottenham Hotspur's Gareth Bale. However, the Welshman's £36m price tag has forced the Spanish giants to look elsewhere.

Alba started his career at Barcelona before making the switch to Valencia five seasons ago. He is now believed to be keen on a return to Camp Nou and will not sign a new contract at the Mestalla, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The Spaniard, who is entering the final 12 months of his deal, has a £32m release clause.