Barça are looking to loan out Abel Ruiz before the transfer window closes

The new few days will be key in deciding Abel Ruiz's future. The striker, as revealed by SPORT at the beginning of August, has met with Eric Abidal and Patrick Kluivert to discuss his plans for next season. After being part of the first team squad which went to the United States, now is the time to find a solution which suits everyone.

For his part, Abel feels he is ready to play at a higher level to continue his development and doesn't want to spend another season in the Segunda B. Whilst grateful for the opportunity to show his talent with Barça B, he's also aware of the interest from around Europe in securing his services for this season. 

After signing a new contract just last summer which extended his commitment to Barça until 2021 - with a €100m buyout clause - the options are as follows: stay at Barça B, be promoted to the senior side, leave on a permanent deal or find a season-long loan. The player isn't interested in the first of those options and Valverde has closed the door on the second one. The coach admires his quality but doesn't feel he is ready to make the step up in his side just yet. Barça won't sell him due to his potential and that means a loan option is the most likely solution.

Olympique Marseille and Real Betis have been linked with temporary moves for Abel but Valencia might be the dark horses as they look to replace Rodrigo Moreno. He'd be closer to home there and could even link up with his old friend Ferran Torres. Any possibility of this move happening would depend on Rodrigo moving to Atletico Madrid this month.