Barcelona’s goalkeeper looks to have an uncertain future at the Nou Camp and while away on Confederations Cup duty with Spain, Valdes confirmed a move to China or the U.S. would interest him in the future.
The 31-year-old has 12-months left on his Barca deal and is likely to see that out and leave as a free agent next summer.
So where could he land after spending his whole career with Blaugrana?
“I do not know here, I have a year to think about it,” Valdes said. “I will not stay in Spain, but I do not mind where, when the moment comes I will decide. I have time. It could be Italy, Russia, Germany, China, or crossing the pond [to the Unites States], to go far away. Anyone who knows me knows I hate talking about money. I have never decided anything in my life for money.”
Since making his first-team debut in September 2002, Valdes has won three Champions Leagues, six La Liga titles, two Copa del Reys and has been named the La Liga’s best ‘keeper on five occasions.
After rattling off all those stats, Valdes is obviously a top quality ‘keeper and any MLS side would be lucky to have him. But which club is in dire need of a goalkeeper?
Could the Philadelphia Union be searching for a new ‘keeper? Zac MacMath has got plenty of matches under his belt in MLS, but some still question his strength and aerial ability. But it is hard to see the Union moving away from their trend of developing and nurturing young US talent.
(MORE: Tuesday’s Transfer Rumor Roundup; Rooney to Barca, Cavani to Chelsea?)
The LA Galaxy look to be set with Carlo Cudicini but what about the San Jose Earthquakes? With a new stadium being built a marquee signing like Valdes would go a long way to selling tickets and helping to raise the clubs profile abroad.
There are plenty of good, young American goalkeepers in MLS but Valdes is pretty much in his prime. He is only 31, and if he stays injury free you can expect at least another seven or eight seasons from the Spaniard.
If Valdes does decide to join a Major League Soccer franchise when his deal with Barca ends, that could spark a huge coup for the league. Being able to tempt one of Europe’s most successful goalkeepers to the league while still in his prime, that’s a pretty big statement right there.
