Lucas Digne thanks Barcelona 'family' ahead of expected move to Everton

French full-back has left pre-season tour of United States, and while there is no confirmation of his next destination, it is widely reported to be Everton

epa06899738 FC Barcelona's French defender Lucas Digne (C) is greeted by his team mates on the occasion of his 25th birthday during a training session held at Joan Gamper sports city in Barcelona, northeastern Spain, 20 July 2018. Spanish Primera Division League will kick off on the upcoming 18 August.  EPA/Alejandro Garcia
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French full-back Lucas Digne has written a glowing tribute to Barcelona after leaving the club's pre-season tour of the United States to finalise his exit from the Spanish champions.

Digne, 25, joined Barcelona in 2016 from Paris Saint-Germain but struggled to hold down a regular first-team place, losing out to Spain's first-choice left-back Jordi Alba.

While his next destination is yet to be confirmed, media reports have claimed that Premier League club Everton are expected to sign the France international.

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"Lucas Digne travels today to Barcelona with the club's permission to finalise his departure from the club," Barcelona wrote on Twitter.

Ahead of his departure from the Catalan giants, Digne took to Instagram to thank the club for the two years in which he earned a Primera Liga winners medal and two Copa del Reys.

"The last two years have been a childhood dream that I have been able to realise and I want to say thank you very much to everyone," Digne wrote.

"Firstly to the Club that has given me everything since I arrived. Thanks to all the physios, the staff with whom I have worked, the physical trainers, the security people, and the kitchen staff who all make the club a family.

"The city of Barcelona will always stay with me for what I have experienced and for the people who were incredible at all times.

"And finally my colleagues, who before being the best players in the world, are amazing people who always help you.

"All this to say that Barca is more than a club - it's an incredible family. A very strong hug to all and a lot of luck for the season."