SANCHEZ LLIBRE - OUR STARS ARE STAYING

ESPANYOL'S president, Daniel Sanchez Llibre, believes he has fended off all interest in his star players and is now concentrating on the forthcoming season, although the question of his club's financial situation still remains.

With speculation all summer that Raul Tamudo (pictured) and Sergio Gonzalez were set to leave the club, Sanchez Llibre believes the fans can now relax, safe in the knowledge that both players will be at Montjuic next season.

Sanchez Llibre declared: "I am convinced that both will continue to play for Espanyol.  Espanyol will always listen to offers for our players, but it doesn't mean that he will reach an agreement.

"There is no chance of either player leaving unless something happens in the next few hours."

It had been rumoured that star midfielder Sergio could be on his way to either Valencia or Deportivo, although it seems the Mestalla side did not offer what Espanyol were looking for. 

However, nothing ever came of the offers, with Sanchez Llibre stating: ‚Ç£Espanyol were not interested in what Deportivo were offering, and Depor were not interested in Espanyol's proposal either."

Furthermore, Sanchez Llibre has confirmed that he has refused to give veteran midfielder, Moises Arteaga, a free transfer. 

Moises has one more year left on his contract and Sanchez Llibre reiterated that the 33-year-old's release clause will remain at 1000 million pesetas (£3.63 million).

"For me, he is an Espanyol player, who joined the team in 1993 and is now captain.

"The squad is looking good, but the coach may want to sign a further player, but the board will decide whether or not that will happen."