Martinez to stay at Bilbao

Javi Martinez: Athletic Bilbao star intends to remain with the Basque club this season

Javi Martinez insists he will reject the advances of some of Europe's best clubs to stay with his beloved Athletic Bilbao.

The 23-year-old is vaunted for his rich talents which allow him to play seamlessly in either defence or central midfield.

Martinez rose to prominence last season as the club progressed to the Europa League final playing a brand of football that oozed class.

He featured in Spain's victorious Euro 2012 winning squad and has a 40 million euro buyout clause in his contract which the club hope will ward off his potential suitors, that include Barcelona.

Rumours

"I'm very happy at Athletic," he told Spanish television channel Antena 3. "I have a contract until 2016.

"I have seen the newspapers and what it says on TV, but it is not always right.

"If you were to believe what is said I have already joined seven different teams, a different one each week. You have to ignore the rumours because they can affect you."