Valdes signs up until 2010

Negotiations between the club's technical secretary, Txiki Begiristain, and the player's agents, Gokra Arrinda and Eduardo Ipiens, have intensified since the end of the season and an agreement has now been reached in principle to extend Valdes' contract at Camp Nou from 2008 to June 30, 2010, with the recision clause rising from 25milion to 100million.

Pen-to-paper next week

The new agreement sees the highly-rated keeper draw level in the pay structure with other first-team regulars, with the salary based on fix pay combined with a certain amount based on both individual and team performance.

Valdes is expected to sign the deal, that will drawn up and finalised on Monday, after the two-match tour of Denmark that Barcelona are due to play this weekend.

Begiristain delighted

Txiki is evidently delighted that Valdes is set to renew: "We have taken another step along the path that was laid out at the end of the season to secure the futures of the spinal column of the team," he said. "By doing this we reinforce our desire to give the fans long-term heroes on the pitch."

Speaking to fcbarcelona.com, Txiki also explained the importance of securing the deal: "We agreed to be tacful during the talks in order to reach an agreement before the start of the new season," he continued. "The case of Valdes has special importance since we have secured a position that has lacked stability in recent years."

Long-term renewals

The deal means that another player who has played a fundamental role in on-field success has signed a new contract with the club until 2010. Valdes, Xavi, Deco and Samuel Eto'o have all committed themselves to the club. Also Leo Messi and Damia have inked improved deals from the Barca B team, although both are breaking through to the first team on a regular basis.

**APPLAUSE**