Samper not interested in Gunners move

Barcelona midfielder Sergi Samper claims he turned down the chance to sign for Arsenal in the pre-season transfer window because he wants to succeed at the Catalans.

The 21-year-old was subsequently sent to Granada on a season-long loan deal with Barca head coach Luis Enrique keen for him to get game time to aid his development and him unlikely to do so at Barcelona with Sergio Busquets, Andres Iniesta and Ivan Rakitic also in his squad.

With Samper's future seemingly in doubt at the time, Arsenal made an approach for the youngster, but he was not interested in making a permanent move away from the Nou Camp.

"I did not want to listen to Wenger," he told Granada's official website.

"I told him clearly that I wanted to stay, I wanted to succeed at Barcelona, and what would make me happy was succeeding at Barcelona in the future."

Samper has made 13 La Liga appearances for Granada this season and has looked impressive despite the side's poor form that sees them sit second last in the standings and set for a battle against relegation.

"I feel important in the team. I am enjoying where I am and I hope that we can change the situation," he added.