Valencia playing hard ball over Mathieu

Jeremy Mathieu met with Amadeo Salvo and Rufete on Tuesday to discuss his possible departure from Valencia to Barcelona this summer. 

According to Valencia-based newspaper 'Superdeporte', the French defender's wish was snubbed by the president of the board, Salvo, and the sporting director, Rufete, and he was ordered to return to training with los Che next Monday. 

Salvo, the article continues, claims that the club will not let Mathieu leave unless someone meets his buy-out clause, which stands at €20million.

The 30-year-old left the meeting without commenting.

Mathieu first got the ball rolling when he met with Rufete last week and requested that Valencia facilitate his move to the Catalan side.

They don't seem to be prepared to let him leave on the cheap, however.

Barcelona's starting offer was thought to be in the region of €10million.