Giovani dos Santos is ready to shun Chelsea, amongst
others, and stay with Barcelona.
The brilliant young Mexican is the latest graduate of the Barca
youth system to be targeted by the Premier League's
big-hitters.
The likes of Cesc Fabregas, Fran Merida, Gerard Pique have all left
Barca to sign pro-contracts in England in recent seasons.
However, with Chelsea, Liverpool, Man United, Man City, Arsenal and
Tottenham all ready to offer Giovani huge money to switch, the
18-year-old is set to stay loyal to Barcelona.
The Mexican-born ace, who was recently granted Spanish citizenship
- making him eligible to play in England which triggered the
interest - has come through the youth ranks at Camp Nou and is now
a member of the first-team squad.
Staying
put
Giovani is adamant that he is more than happy to sign a new deal at
Barca.
"Besides that I have seen that several English teams are interested
in me I want to stay at Barcelona and I am already in negotiations
for signing my new contract," he said.
"I have always wanted to stay at Barcelona and play in the first
team. I come from the youth system of Barcelona and I admire this
club so much.
"Barcelona has given to me absolutely everything since I have
arrived here.
"This is my first season with the first team and I am in satisfied
at being able to play some minutes in a team with players that have
a great quality."
Giovani is full of praise for Frank Rijkaard - who has handed him
his first-team debut.
"I am thankful to the coach who trusts me," he said.
"I also thank him for giving me the chance of playing some minutes
this season.
"I work and train hard everyday and show the coach that I am ready
for when he thinks it's necessary."