Neymar "certain" to stay with Barcelona

Barcelona's vice-president Carles Vilarrubi has said that it is a 'certainty' that Neymar will sign a new contract amid speculation linking him with a big-money move to the Premier League.

The 24-year-old, whose current deal with the La Liga champions runs to 2018, is thought to be subject of a tug-of-war battle between Manchester United and Manchester City, both of whom are prepared to stump up a world-record £145m for the transfer.

"Neymar will renew his contract," a defiant Villarrubi told Radio Catalunya. "It will be when he wants, and when the club wants. We are absolutely certain.

"He is committed to the team and is happy with his teammates. The club gives him a lot of happiness."

Villarrubi also played down reports that incoming City manager Pep Guardiola is also planning to raid his former club for Sergio Busquets.

"We are convinced that Sergio will wear the shirt of Barcelona for many years," he added. "Also [Marc-Andre] Ter Stegen, Neymar... they are the first to enjoy Barcelona and they show on the pitch their desire to wear the shirt. Fans can sleep at ease with the possibility that Guardiola will not take any players; they are very committed."

Guardiola takes over from Manuel Pellegrini at the Etihad this summer.