Dani Alves intends to leave Barcelona this summer.

Speaking at a news conference on Thursday, Barcelona sporting director Robert Fernandez said: "I don't like the idea that Alves is leaving. His performance has been fantastic both on and off the field, but it is his decision to go and we must respect it."

Robert added: "Alves' contract was expired since last year and the club were in a complicated situation. He was a very important player so the club opted to renew.

"So that a player is happy, one looks for situations that benefit everyone and in this case, the clause was that he could be a free agent after one year. Clubs do not always win in these negotiations.

"Last year we renewed under special circumstances because we could not sign players [FIFA ban]. At that time the renewal was logical and normal.

"He had had a great season. He has always done really well here but now he has decided to go. That is a personal decision and there is nothing more. He has communicated with us his intention to leave the club."

Alves posted a cryptic message on Instagram on Wednesday, writing: "What does luck mean to you? For me it is the point where opportunity and preparation meet. And what does chance mean to you? For me it means sitting on your sofa and waiting for luck to arrive."