Afellay coy on Spurs link

Barcelona midfielder Ibrahim Afellay is remaining quiet over rumours linking him with a move to Tottenham.

The Ducthman arrived at the Nou Camp in January but has struggled to break into the starting XI, often forced to make appearances from the substitutes bench.

Spurs are reported to have tabled a £4m bid for the 25-year-old and while the former PSV midfielder insisted he was focused on Barcelona, he neither confirmed nor denied whether such a bid had been made.

“Look, if there is anything that is clear it’s that rumours are part of football and we must learn to live with them, but now I’m just focused on Barcelona,” Afellay told Spanish newspaper AS.

“I’m aware (of the reports) because I read the information arriving from England. People call you and say they have seen such a thing.”

The Dutch international has also been attracting interest from Italy, where Juventus and Lazio are reportedly keen to sign the player.

However, Afellay insists he is happy with the European champions and is keen to challenge to the likes of Pedro and new arrival Alexis Sanchez for a starting spot.

It’s perfect. I feel happy. On a sporting level, I hope to express my potential,” he added.

“(Playing more) is my intention, of course. I want to play as much as possible.”

Afellay currently has another four-years remaining on his contract.