The Camp Nou awaits the league leaders. Sevilla will visit Barcelona's home next Saturday, in what will be the most attractive fixture of the weekend and a real test for Valverde's side.
In preparation for the encounter, Pablo Machín could have four last-minute 'signings' at his disposal. Mercado, Escudero, Gonalons and Amadou are in the final stretch of their recoveries.
Mercado and Escudero have more chance of featuring against Barcelona. Both will join up with the group in the coming days.
However, Gonalons and Amadou will not make it back in time, and will likely be back in two weeks. Sevilla want to be cautious with the French duo, and will instead look to Ever Banega or Franco Vazquez as replacements.