Real Betis defender Junior Firpo is delighted with reports linking him with a move to FC Barcelona.
Ernesto Valverde confirmed earlier this week that the La Liga champions are looking to sign a left back ahead of the new season, to provide cover and competition for long standing defender Jordi Alba.
Firpo, 22, has been linked with both Valverde's side and Champions League winners Liverpool in recent weeks, and the Spanish U21 international is flattered by the reports.
"It is true that I have heard the stories of me moving to Barcelona, he told an exclusive interview with Mundo Deportivo.
"I take real pride in this, and to be linked with a club like FC Barcelona is a compliment.
"But at the moment I am focused on pre-season training with Betis.
"I am so grateful to the club, because they have given me everything."
Firpo burst onto the Real Betis first team scene last season, establishing himself as first choice left back and the Dominican Republic-born full back netted three goals in 24 league games last season.
