Rafinha will only be allowed to leave on loan if he signs a new deal first

Rafinha's fine start to the season with Barça could have changed the plans regarding his future. He was the man of the match against Athletic Club and shined against Real Betis too.

Ernesto Valverde is a fan of the midfielder and, when he's needed to leave out players, Rafinha has never been considered.

The issue surrounding his future relates to the amount of time left on his existing deal. He's out of contract in June 2020 and, if the only offers on the table loans, Barça will make him an ultimatum: sign a new deal and go out on loan or spend your last 12 months at Barça.

Valencia are the team pushing hardest for the Brazilian but the owner, Peter Lim, won't sanction a transfer. A loan deal makes sense for them but not for Barça who don't want to lose a solid squad member and the chance of any cash for his development.

Rafinha must decide whether he wants to move so badly that he'd be willing to sign a short-term contract to ensure Barça are fully compensated in the future.