David Villa hopes to retire at Barcelona

Villa has been linked with a move to English clubs Chelsea and Manchester City (GETTY IMAGES)

Barcelona striker David Villa has dismissed reports linking him with a possible move away from the European champions, insisting he would like to finish his career at the Nou Camp.

The Spain international joined Barca from Valencia last summer for €40 million and netted 23 goals in all competitions as the Catalan giants won both the Primera Division and Champions League titles last term.

Since the end of the campaign there has been transfer speculation about Villa's future at Barca, with English clubs Chelsea and Manchester City touted as possible destinations for Spain's all-time record goalscorer.

However, speaking at a promotional event today, Villa said of those reports: "All that's been said hasn't bothered me because it isn't rumours or speculation, it's a lie.

"Hopefully I can retire at Barca because that would mean everything has been great for me.

"I would like to have the chance to retire at Barca even though I'm only 29. It would be very nice. I want to be at Barca as long as possible," he added in quotes reported on Barcelona's official website.

Villa was also asked about Udinese winger Alexis Sanchez and Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas, two players who are in Barca's sights as possible reinforcements this summer.

Villa said of the pair: "The are two very good players at both an individual and collective level, and it would be a big injection of quality for our side (if they signed)."