Both London clubs have reportedly chasing the Brazilian striker with the intention of launching bids for the 23-year-old in January.
But the in-demand forward has stated his plan to remain at Brazilian club Internacional for the foreseeable future, honoring his contract, which runs until 2015.
“I have a contract until 2015 with Internacional and for the moment, despite all the rumours, I am staying where I am and that is in Porte Alegre with Internacional.”
Chelsea were tipped to land the signing should a bid for Athletico Madrid goal-machine Radamel Falcao fall through with Spurs in hot pursuit behind them.
The 6ft1” striker has netted 24 goals in 40 appearances for his club this season and looks on his way to beat his previous tally of 38 in 51 for the Rio Grande do Sul side.
He continued,
“The Premier League holds great attraction, of course. I was in England for quite some time during the Olympics and it is a great country with good people. But for the moment I am staying put.”
Internacional had placed a hefty £48 million price tag on their star striker – thought to be a little excessive considering he has yet to venture into European football.
Along with Neymar, he is considered one of the best strikers and there are high hopes that he can lead Brazil to glory in the 2014 World Cup they will host.
Chelsea will now turn their attention back to Radamel Falcao whilst Spurs are understood to be chasing a number of European targets – the likes of Fernando Llorente and out-of-favour Barcelona frontman David Villa are thought to top their January wish-list.
image: © simonw92
Jenny Leigh
@backpagenewsmore stories from Jenny Leigh
Jennifer is a freelance writer and filmmaker from London with a great passion for football - the game, the business, and the culture. Jennifer hopes to provide readership with a high standard of news, analysis, and opinion over a range of football events, stories, and issues.
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