Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde is having a rethink over plans to sell Thomas Vermaelen.

The former Arsenal captain has struggled for form and fitness since his move to Barca and spent last season on-loan with Roma.

Vermaelen has been the subject of interest from West Brom, however AS says Valverde may block his departure after being impressed by the defender in preseason.

The coach is eager for four centre-halves to be available to him this term, with his first-choice being Samuel Umtiti and Gerard Pique, covered by Javier Mascherano and potentially Vermaelen.

There is now talks between Valverde and directors about what to do with Vermaelen over the coming weeks.