Vidal has fallen out of favour under Ernesto Valverde, making just 10 La Liga appearances for the Catalan giants this term.

Sevilla have been discussed as an option, with reports suggesting he could head back to his old club on loan.

Valverde is looking to trim his squad in the January window, and a few players appear to be surplus to requirements.

And according to Spanish paper Mundo Deportivo, Valverde has told Vidal he doesn’t fit into his long-term plans.

The report suggests no formal contact has been made with Sevilla, even though they have been credited with an interest.

Ivan Rakitic, meanwhile, has admitted he would support Vidal’s decision if he were to join Sevilla.

“If he decides to go to Sevilla, as a teammate, and a Sevillista, I would that like very much," he said.

“I wish him all the best.

“He already knows them very well, he is a player of the highest quality and Sevilla are the best in Europe."

Barcelona enjoyed a comfortable 3-0 win over Levante yesterday in their first La Liga match after the Christmas break.