Barcelona president Joan Laporta has paid a glowing tribute to Jordi Alba.

The left-back is leaving Barca with a year left on his contract. The gesture is set to help the club financially.

"I want to highlight one thing that I was just talking about with your representatives," Laporta told Jordi Alba at a ceremony yesterday. "In addition to everything that has been said, you have shown your great commitment at this time when you are helping the club financially.

"Few people or football professionals are capable of doing this. Jordi, on his own initiative, of course has a good contract, which he has earned, he will continue his career because he still has a few years left, but he has had this deference, out of Barcelonismo, to help the club financially. He has given up an important part of his salary.

"It will give us leeway on the issue of financial fair play. And I say this with pride because it shows Jordi's personality. You are part of our badge. We are here for whatever you need."