Mathieu Valbuena puts Atletico Madrid on alert

Marseille attacker Mathieu Valbuena has refused to deny suggestions that he wants to "play abroad" at some point during his career.

The Frenchman, who is regarded as one of the most talented playmakers in European football, has been strongly linked with a move to Atletico Madrid in recent months.

A transfer offer of £10m has been mooted, but it is unlikely that the Spanish outfit will be able to tempt the French club in the winter transfer window.

"My aim is to have a great second half of the season in terms of a club and then to excel in the World Cup. I have been here, at Marseille, for eight years now," he told BFM TV.

"I have never denied my want to try and play abroad. We shall see what happens."

The 29-year-old joined Marseille from Libourne in 2006.