Sevilla midfielder N'Zonzi welcomes Barcelona links

The Frenchman, who is also a target for Chelsea, admits interest from afar is flattering but insists he remains focused and could yet sign a new deal

Steven N’Zonzi has welcomed ongoing talk of interest from Barcelona in his services but insists that he remains fully focused on life at Sevilla.

The Frenchman has been generating transfer gossip for some time now, with his efforts in La Liga and European competition not going unnoticed.

Barca are said to view him as potential cover for Sergio Busquets, while Premier League title hopefuls Chelsea have been linked with an approach to bolster their midfield ranks.

N’Zonzi is aware of the speculation, and admits to being flattered by it, but maintains that he is happy where he is and will continue to shrug off discussions regarding his future.

"It's good to know that Barcelona, one of the best clubs in the world, are watching my matches,” he said ahead of Sevilla’s trip to Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday.

"I'm very focused on Sevilla. I love the club, the supporters and the city and I feel good. The most important thing for me is to play and enjoy my football, and in Sevilla I am doing that."

Amid the talk of interest from afar, Sevilla have expressed an interest in extending N’zonzi’s current contract.

Club president Jose Castro told Cadena Cope: "We are working on N'Zonzi's contract extension and we are in negotiations. We hope to announce it soon.”

No agreement has been reached as yet, but all options are being considered.

N’Zonzi added: "I could stay in Sevilla for a long time. The only thing that matters to me is to keep growing."

For now, that means aiding efforts at home and abroad – with Sevilla sat fifth in the La Liga standings and top of their Champions League group.

"We have a very good team and if it does not finish in the top four, it would not be a good season,” said N’Zonzi.

“With this coach and this team we can do very good things."