Saturday 28 June 2014 13:19, UK
FC Porto striker Jackson Martinez says he will only consider his future once Colombia’s World Cup campaign is over, with a host of clubs reported to be keen on securing his signature.
The 27-year-old, who netted twice in Colombia’s 4-1 demolition of Japan, has been linked with moves to Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid, among other European sides, this summer.
Martinez only joined Porto from Mexican outfit Chiapas in 2012, but he has taken Portuguese football by storm, netting 46 goals in 60 league appearances during his first two seasons.
Martinez has another two years remaining on his current deal in Portugal, but despite the speculation surrounding his future, he insists his only concern at this moment in time is the World Cup.
"It is not about me, we are just focused and together as a team," said Martinez.
"I will not think about my future until after the World Cup. I am happy with my work so far, but we are together as a team and that is very important for us."
After topping Group C with maximum points, Colombia meet Uruguay in the last-16 at the Maracana Stadium, and Martinez is confident that Jose Pekerman’s side can triumph.
"I believe Colombia is superior to Uruguay, but we need to show that on the pitch. It will be a big rivalry and now they will increase their battle to beat us," he said.
"Uruguay is a very difficult opponent and we will have to concentrate and be focused if we are to reach the quarter-finals.
"We know Uruguay’s strengths and they know about us, so there will be little surprise of advantage for either team."
Martinez also spoke of how fellow South American sides are thriving at this summer’s tournament, with Chile, Colombia, Brazil, Uruguay and Costa Rica all reaching the knock-out stages.
He said: "There is no doubt that this World Cup is about the South American teams. It has a South American flavour.
"I am convinced that it will be a South American champion. The conditions, the atmosphere and everything suits us. This is a very open tournament – exciting – there are goals and great moments.
"We believe we can progress," the striker added.
Watch the best of the best of the World Cup talent in Champions League action on Sky Sports 5 next season. Activate our brand new channel by clicking here.
