Verrati wants to stay at PSG, despite Real Madrid’s interest

Paris, July 30 (IANS) Paris Saint-Germain's Italian midfielder Marco Verrati said that he wants to continue with the French football giants until he wins the UEFA Champions League, despite rumours about Real Madrid's interest in his services.

In an interview published on Saturday by French newspaper Le Parisien, the 23-year-old said he aims to help PSG win the Champions League, the same goal of the French team, reports Efe.

He added that he is happy that "a great team like Real Madrid" are interested in signing him, but has taken a decision to stay with the Ligue 1 champions.

"I'm flattered that a great team like Real Madrid are interested in me, but I've made the decision of winning with Paris," he said.

"It's been four years that I have been in Paris. I begin my fifth year. Until we have won the Champions League, I want to stay here. I want to win something important here before I get tired or that the club no longer want me."

Verrati pointed out that he hopes to return soon with PSG after the injury that sidelined him for six months. He also missed the European Championship held in France between June 10 to July 10.

Madrid's reported interest in Verrati comes after they dropped out of the race to sign Paul Pogba from Juventus.