Barcelona of no interest to Iwobi, claims Arsenal star’s father

The Nigeria international is fully focused on nailing down a regular role at the Emirates Stadium and will continue to shun any interest shown from afar

Alex Iwobi has no intention of leaving Arsenal any time soon, according to his father, with reported interest from the likes of Barcelona being brushed aside.

The 20-year-old forward enjoyed a breakthrough season at the Emirates Stadium in 2015/16, having made his debut early in the campaign and gone on to make 21 appearances in all competitions.

He has remained part of Arsene Wenger’s plans this term, taking in regular outings in both the Premier League and Champions League.

Iwobi is yet to open his goal account for 2016-17, but continues to offer enough to the Gunners cause to make him an important figure in Arsenal’s forward line.

His efforts are also attracting admiring glances from afar, with his current ability and future potential being noted by top clubs across the continent.

There have been murmurings of interest from La Liga giants Barcelona, but Iwobi’s father has been quick to point out that a player under contract in north London until 2020 is giving no thought to moving on.

Chuka Iwobi told AfricanFootball.com: “In football, you never say no. But at this point in time, he is at the right place.

“He’s doing well at Arsenal, but should any club come for him now, the answer would certainly be no.

“For him now, it’s not about the money.

“So, should a club like Barcelona come with more money, he will certainly stay back at Arsenal because now it is not about him making money, it’s about him concentrating on his career, progressing and going on to the next stage.”

He added: “All he has known is Arsenal.

“He has never gone on loan, he has always been with Arsenal.

“He has broken into the first team and what they all talk about is his humility.

“I see him being in Arsenal for very many, many years.”

Wenger will welcome such comments, with the Frenchman having worked hard to keep the conveyor belt of academy talent ticking over at Arsenal.

He has seen key men lured away to pastures new in the recent past – with Barcelona a particular thorn in his side – but Iwobi would appear to be buying into the long-term project being pieced together at the Emirates.