‘Musacchio available for €50m’

Villarreal President Fernando Roig has asserted that Mateo Musacchio is contracted until June 2018 and is only available at his buyout clause of €50m.

The 23-year-old defender has attracted speculation over his future amid improved form for the Yellow Submarine and uncertainty over his contractual situation.

However, words from his agent that he is out of contract in June 2014 and reports from Spanish media suggesting former club River Plate still hold at least a half share of his registration have been countered by Villarreal’s chief.

“Musacchio has a contract until 2018, therefore he will be here for four more years,” Roig has told reporters this week.

“If someone wants to come and pay what he is worth, then we will talk.

“For the player to leave, it depends on three parties, not just one or two – he has a contract.

“If he is wanted, then for Villarreal it is fine, but only if the money is paid up front.”

Musacchio has been linked with a host of clubs, including Napoli, Manchester City and Chelsea.