Valencia president Manuel Llorente has valued David Villa at €88million price-tag in a bid to deter offers for the 27-year-old striker.
The Spain international has been linked with a move away from the Mestalla in recent years as Valencia continue to struggle financially.
Head coach Unai Emery admitted that Villa would be allowed to leave but only if they were able to bring in a like-for-like replacement, although even that looks unlikely given the latest price tag slapped on the forward.
“The value for any deal was €44million minimum but we have decided to increase this to double – €88million,” Llorente said.
“My opinion of David’s value is because he has demonstrated his quality in all competitions. The price is placed by the current market not by our desires.”
Llorente added that if Villa was sold the club had proved in the past that they can compete without their biggest stars.
“We do not have to accept. We do not have fears to sell because Valencia have been in a similar situation in the past with players like (Gaizka) Mendieta, Claudio Lopez or Gerard and we are still alive,” he added.
Christmas special offer – Subscribe to World Soccer magazine today and Save up to 32%
