Barcelona sports chief Txiki Begiristain is adamant midfielder Thiago Motta will not leave on a free transfer this week.

"He must know clearly that to return to be a great player he has to leave this club. He needs an exit to recover the level that will make him one of the best ones in the world in his position," said Begiristain.

"I am optimistic, there are options, but it will all depend on him. What he must realise is that he won't leave for a free, it is a question of club policy."

Inter Milan are favourites for the Brazilian.