Italy right-back 'proud' of Barcelona link but insists on staying put amid Spurs interest

Both Tottenham and Barcelona are reportedly interested in signing Alessandro Florenzi

TOTTENHAM target Alessandro Florenzi has expressed his "pride" at being linked with a big-money transfer to Barcelona.

 

Roma right-back Florenzi, 24, has greatly impressed in the Italian capital this season.

The Italy international has scored four goals in 19 games for club and country and is a key member of Roma's title-chasing side.

TalkSPORT claimed Spurs were keen on the player earlier this month but that Barcelona were also chasing him.

 

And Florenzi said he was pleased to be linked with the Nou Camp club, who host Roma in the Champions League tonight.

“Barcelona are the best team in the world," he told Marca.

"I’m not talking about one single player, as they are all very strong, but above all the strike force often makes the difference.

“It will be a very, very difficult match and to stop them we must give 120 per cent.

 

"If I were to wear the captain’s armband it’d be a huge honour, especially following in the footsteps of Francesco Totti and Daniele De Rossi. Both helped me so much.

“Barcelona interest fills me with pride, as it means I am doing well and am on the right track.

"I take it one day at a time and give everything for Roma.”

Florenzi is reportedly seen in Catalonia as a long-term replacement for Dani Alves, who was close to leaving Barcelona in the summer.

 

Alves eventually signed a two-year contract but the Brazilian may not see out the deal as Barca manager Luis Enrique plans for the future.

As for Spurs, current right-back Kyle Walker did his selection chances no harm with a neat finish against West Ham at the weekend.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino is thought to be interested in a number of players heading towards the January transfer window, although their pursuit of Fiorentina striker Khouma Babacar is already over.