Arthur 'flattered' by Juventus interest but keen to stay at Barcelona

Brazil midfielder Arthur has stated his desire to remain with Barcelona amid reported interest from Juventus.

Spanish media reports had linked the Serie A champions with a transfer bid for the 23-year-old Brazil international, who joined the club from Gremio in the summer of 2018.

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"The interest of great clubs is flattering, but I have only one thing in mind: playing here for many years," Arthur was quoted as saying by Italy's La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Arthur, who has 20 caps for his country and helped the club win La Liga last season, is seen as an important member of Quique Setien's squad, particularly with Ivan Rakitic's future at Camp Nou in doubt.

Both La Liga and the Serie A have been suspended amid the Covid-19 crisis.

Professional football in Spain took a step toward resuming this week with clubs welcoming players back to training after the country's prime minister Pedro Sanchez outlined plans to relax coronavirus lockdown measures.