Dani Alves bids an emotional goodbye to Barca fans after his release from club

Barcelona have informed defender Dani Alves that his contract will not be extended beyond the current season, meaning he will leave the club at the end of June.

The Brazilian star made a romantic return to the club in January as a free-agent signing following a spell at Sao Paulo in his native Brazil.

Alves, 39, performed well in the latter part of the La Liga season as Barcelona turned around their stuttering start to the season to eventually finish the campaign in second position behind champions Real Madrid.

But according to SPORT, Alves was told on Tuesday morning that he will not be offered a contract renewal.

The veteran defender is still turning out for his country and is now holidaying after appearing for the Selecao in their recent tour of Asia.

Following the news of his impending release, it is uncertain when or where Alves will play his next game, but a move to a European club could make financial sense for the Brazilian at this stage of his career.

The 39-year-old had requested a new deal at the Nou Camp that would run until at least the end of the year, as he eyes a spot in the Brazil squad for the World Cup in Qatar this November - the only major trophy to have eluded him.

But cash-strapped Barcelona believe they have sufficient cover at right-back in Sergi Roberto and Serginho Dest whilst plotting a move for Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta.

In a typically classy response, Alves took to Instagram to bid farewell to the club and its supporters.

Now the time of our goodbye has arrived. It has been more than 8 years dedicated to these colours and that house… but like everything in life, years go by, paths separate and stories are written from different places – and that's how it was. They tried to get rid of me but they couldn't, well, you can't imagine, or maybe you can, how resistant and resilient I am,' said the Brazilian legend.

'Many more years passed until football and life, which as always are very grateful to those who respect them, decided to give me the chance to return here and be able to say goodbye.'

'But not a goodbye without first thanking all of those that are behind the spotlight, all of those that ensure that everything is perfect for us, to all of them: THANK YOU.

'I would also like to thank all the staff for the chance that they gave me to return to this club and be able to wear that marvellous shirt once again, they don't know how happy I am… let's hope they don't miss my craziness and happiness each day.

'Let's also hope that those that are staying make history at this club, I hope so from the bottom of my heart.

'It was 23 titles won: 2 trebles, one sextuple and great book of gold written.'

'A very beautiful cycle ends and another even more challenging one begins. Let the world never forget: EVEN IF A LION IS 39 YEARS OLD, IT CONTINUES TO BE A GOOD CRAZY LION. Forever, VISCA AL BARCA.'