Giovani to shun English move

Barca starlet to stay at Camp Nou

By Patricio Figueroa   Last updated: 6th October 2007

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Giovani: Staying put

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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."