Barcelona midfielder Gavi has hit out at reports of a possible departure for team-mate Ronald Araujo, insisting the centre-back has no interest in leaving the club.
Amid reports of stalled contract negotiations, it was claimed that Araujo already had agreed to join Juventus on loanbefore Arsenal joined the race for the signature of the representative of Uruguay.
However, the story backfired on Wednesday when it aired Araujo had agreed to the terms of a contract extension with Barcelonawho celebrated the occasion with a 5-1 triumph over Real Betis in the Copa del Rey.
Gavi, who scored in the emphatic win, moved to end the speculation after the final whistle.
“Many journalists create stories,” Gavi told the media. “Araujo wants to stay and I am convinced that he will”.
Araujo's importance to the team was then underlined Inigo Martinez limped off injured in the Super Cup win over Real Madrid, opening the door for him to make his first important start of the season against Betis.
“He has a contract, I think for another year and a half. So I never doubted it,” manager Hansi Flick said after the final whistle. “I don't know, I'm glad it's here. I'm glad it's here and we'll see what the future brings.
“At the moment, he is doing well. Even today, you can see that the fans appreciate his return. And of course, the team as well. He gives us something special.”