Nuno expects Mathieu decision "within days"

New Valencia manager Nuno Espirito Santo, speaking after his side's pre-season friendly defeat against German side Nürnberg, said he expects a decision on the future of Jeremy Mathieu within days. 

"We must make a final decision," he confirmed.

"Both the club and the player have agreed this much."

The Portuguese coach added that it is obvious how the French defender wants the transfer saga to end.

"Mathieu has played his cards and has clearly said what he wants to happen," he continued.

However, Nuno was unwilling to put a date on an announcement regarding the possble departure of the player, only going as far as to say that "in a few days" everything will be resolved one way or another.

These quotes come after Mathieu once again missed a Valencia friendly match. 

He has now not featured in either of their two pre-season matches to date as he hopes to close a move to Barcelona as soon as possible.

Up until now, Valencia have been demanding Barça pay the player's €20 million release clause, but the Catalans hope to be able to reduce that price.