Joan Verdu has confirmed at a Press conference today that he is leaving Espanyol after failing to agree a new contract.
The playmaker has been off and on in negotiations with Los Periquitos over an extension to his contract for the past year.
However, recent talks have failed to materialise an agreement and the player has today clarified that he will be leaving once his current deal expires on June 30.
“I did everything I could, I believed that I would retire here, but the club has not valued me as much as I had thought,” Verdu explained to reporters.
“It is not just an economic issue but one also of trust, to feel important and more.
“It began two-and-a-half years ago when I rejected two offers and the club promised me some things that have not been fulfilled.
“They told me I would stay, it would be arranged. It was by word, but I believed in it. During this time I could not have made more efforts to reach an agreement.
“I have decided not to accept the offer and from here I will consider other proposals and decide within the next hours or days.
“I believe I have a lot of football left in me, if the club does not believe this then they will have to think again.
“The four years I have been here I have experienced a great time. Like when I would hear my name chanted at the stadium, and all the goals I have scored. I will try to be a fan once more, I will concern myself always with Espanyol and I wish them all the best.
“I do not like being able to say goodbye as God intended, on the field and with the fans, and to say goodbye to my teammates.
“It’s a sad day, here things have been great, I have been loved and I have become captain.”
Previously linked with Atletico Madrid and Sevilla, it is believed that Real Betis and Villarreal are now vying for his signature.
