Southampton target plays down England move

Espanyol playmaker Joan Verdu is keen on extending his stay with the club rather than obtaining a move away, according to the player's agent.

The 29-year-old has been linked with moves to Atletico Madrid and the Seattle Sounders, as well as joining up with old boss Mauricio Pochettino at Southampton.

However, Verdu, whose contract with the Catalan outfit expires in the summer, would rather prolong his stay at Espanyol than leave.

"He has given me instructions that negotiating a new deal is the main priority," said Verdu's representative Magico Diaz.

"By talking, creative solutions can be found.

"I can assure everyone that there has been no type of early agreement made with anyone."

Verdu has appeared over 100 times for Espanyol.