Barcelona midfielder Sergi Samper has suffered an ankle sprain in training that could keep him out for several weeks, according to Marca.

It’s the latest setback in what has been an injury-riddled career for the Spaniard, who spent last season on loan at Las Palmas, a spell that was marked by injuries again.

Samper also missed the Blaugrana’s pre-season tour of the US last month due to injury.

Wednesday’s news comes with a degree of concern as Samper has previously required surgery on the same ankle.

This is a critical season for 23-year-old midfielder Samper, who has long been touted as the next academy product to make the step up at the Camp Nou. With his injury history, and with Barcelona having plenty of options in midfield already, his future at the club will come under increasing scrutiny.