Barcelona have tried very hard to part ways with Memphis Depay all season long, and just when things seemed to be en route for the Dutch player's departure, members of the team's hierarchy are thinking twice about how convenient it would be for them to do so.

According to a report by As, the team led by Xavi Hernández wants Depay to leave, but they will not do that no matter the cost. Depay's contract ends with the season, and Los Culés want to cash in on his departure. The main problem for them is that the only confirmed offer for his services comes from a team they do not want to sell the player to, even if they have to.

The only team that has shown real interest in the Dutch's services is Atlético Madrid, and Barcelona's refusal to let him leave has to do with the fact that Depay could still face them in the later rounds of the Copa del Rey and La Liga. It is safe to say that Los Blaugranas do not want to strengthen a direct rival for the final months of the competition, and that could be a valid point to some.

Nonetheless, the main issue remains. Depay is surplus to Xavi's requirements and he wants to leave. Will the "fear clause" make its return if the Dutch ends up leaving the club? It seems that it is the only option for Los Blaugranas right now.