Real rumours denied as Reyes ‘happy’ at Arsenal

ARSENAL star Jose Antonio Reyes has moved to distance himself from reports that he is keen to join Real Madrid, insisting he is looking forward to the future at The Emirates Stadium.

Quotes purportedly stemming from Reyes himself appeared in the Spanish media yesterday claiming the 22-year-old was still unsettled in London and that a move back home with Real would be a tempting prospect.

However, speaking from the Premiership side’s pre-season training camp in Austria, Reyes has now insisted he has no desire to leave the Gunners and that he is not responsible for the erroneous quotes.

“I don’t know where these words have come from,” Reyes said in Austria. “But what I would like to say is that I am very happy at Arsenal. At the moment we are all training hard in preparation for the new season and I am excited about not only playing at Emirates Stadium but also helping Arsenal to challenge for honours.”

Earlier Reyes reportedly claimed: “I have always said that I want to return to Spain. I have nothing against Arsenal, completely the opposite.

“It is a great club and they have helped me so much.

“The fans have given me so much support since I joined.

“But they know that I have not adapted to life in England.

“I still have not got used to the language or the weather.

“If Real Madrid want me then that is marvellous. I have always said what a huge club it is and it would be an honour to play for them. Let’s see what happens.”

Meanwhile reports emanating from Spain last night claim Madrid are closing in on the signature of Milan playmaker Kaka.

Spanish television station Telemadrid suggest Kaka’s agent and father has travelled to the Spanish capital in order to hold ‘advanced’ talks with Real’s sporting director Pedja Mijatovic.

Real have refused to comment on the latest bout of speculation which has it that the flamboyant star is hoping to persuade Milan to facilitate his exit and agree a fee with Fabio Capello’s side rather than prolong negotiations.

The Rossoneri, who recently appealed successfully against their expulsion from the UEFA Champions League for match-fixing, have denied the player is available for transfer.

Kaka’s father, Bosco Leite Izecson, and the player himself have also consistently distanced themselves from the heightening speculation surrounding the 24-year-old’s future.

* Chelsea are ready to offer Frank Lampard a new deal to keep him at Stamford Bridge for life. The star’s agent Steve Kutner has revealed he has held initial talks with Chelsea over a new deal.

“I spoke with Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon who said he wanted to stop all the Barcelona and Milan rumours and offer Frank a new five-year deal. Frank’s current deal makes him one of Europe’s top earners. There’s no rush.”