David Villa insists he will not let speculation over his club future affect his World Cup campaign.
Valencia capture Costa as star man focuses on World Cup dream
Spain striker David Villa insists he will not let speculation over his club future affect his World Cup campaign.
The 28-year-old has established himself as one of the world's most sought-after goalscorers at Valencia and was on the brink of joining Florentino Perez's new Real Madrid project last June.
Valencia president Manuel Llorente said he would only sell if the cash-strapped club received a "scandalously" big offer and although Villa stayed put, rumours persist about a potential move after this summer's World Cup finals in South Africa.
But Villa is determined to stay focused on leading Spain's bid to become simultaneous European and world champions.
"I'm not going to be waiting expectantly to see what happens. I have learned my lesson," he told Spanish television station
Canal 9.
Historic
"I have something historic in front of me, a once-in-a-lifetime event, something many footballers never get to go to, and I am lucky enough to be going.
"I won't allow myself to think about anything that isn't football related."
Spanish champions Barcelona were one of the clubs thought to be chasing Villa last year and Spanish media believe they have renewed their interest.
But despite there being many suitors for the former Sporting Gijon and Real Zaragoza striker, he insists he would be glad to remain at the Mestella.
"I have a four-year contract with Valencia with a big buy-out clause, I'm happy and committed to the project here," Villa added.
"I don't think the club would want to sell me unless it was necessary."
Villa's 21 league goals helped Valencia to a third-place finish in La Liga and earned them a return to the Champions League next season, which will provide a welcome boost to the club's coffers.
Costa signing
And Los Che have bolstered their squad again for next term by signing Portuguese defender Ricardo Costa on a four-year deal.
The 29-year-old helped Wolfsburg win the 2009 Bundesliga title before joining French side Lille in January.
And the former Porto man has been handed a surprise call-up for Portugal's provisional 24-man World Cup squad, with Carlos Queiroz bringing him back into the international set-up after a four-year absence.
Valencia have already secured the services of coach Unai Emery for next term and last week announced they had reached an agreement to sign Turkey international Mehmet Topal from Galatasaray.
