Abidal: Murillo was signed to compete and because the coach is in command FC Barcelona Explained the reasons for the transfer

Barcelona have signed Jeison Murillo on loan from Valencia until the end of the season and technical secretary Eric Abidal has explained that the need to compete right now was behind the transfer.

He spoke of the background to the transfer and explained that Ernesto Valverde wanted an experienced player to cover for the injured Samuel Umtiti and Thomas Vermaelen.

"Our backing of the academy is the same and nothing changes," Abidal said, dismissing the notion that Murlillo's arrival signifies a snub of La Masia.

"We need to compete right now and the coach is in command here.

"I hope that players come through the academy as has been happening until now."

Abidal didn't rule out the possibility of signing other players before the end of January.

"We are always monitoring the market," he said.

"In theory, there is nothing planned in terms of arrivals.

"As for exits, there are certainly some players who will want more.

"Everything will be put on the table and decisions will be taken."

Finally, he confirmed that the Catalan club had been interested in Rodrigo Caio when looking for a centre-back, but that they ultimately opted for Murillo.