Valencia Real talk played down

Ecuador star happy at JJB Stadium

By Peter O'Rourke   Last updated: 23rd December 2008

Valencia Real talk played down

Valencia: In demand

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Antonio Valencia's agent has played down speculation linking Real Madrid with a move for the Wigan winger.

Reports in Spain have suggested new Real coach Juande Ramos was lining up a big-money bid to lure Valencia to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Ramos has admitted he is keen to bring in a new right-sided midfielder and Valencia is reported to be among his list of targets

Valencia has established himself as one of the best players in the Premier League since his arrival at the JJB Stadium in the summer of 2006.

The likes of Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham have all been credited with an interest in the Ecuador international, but Wigan are determined to keep hold of the 23-year-old.

Valencia's representative Diego Herrera is aware of the rumours linking his client with Real Madrid, but insists the talk is just speculation.

"I have heard the talk about interest from Real Madrid in the press, but right now it is just speculation," Herrera told skysports.com.

"There is nothing offical and no-one has spoken to me.

"I have also heard about reports of interest from Tottenham and Aston Villa, but no-one has spoken to me about this.

"I have spoken to Wigan manager Steve Bruce and no-one has given him any formal offer.

"He is very keen to keep Antonio as he is one of the best players at Wigan.

"He is playing very well and he is happy there and happy with his team-mates."