Transfer news: Miralem Pjanic wants to stay with Roma despite links with a move to both Arsenal and Tottenham

Midfielder has two years left on his current contract but insists that he is happy in Italy amid speculation of a move to north London

Miralem Pjanic (GETTY IMAGES)

Arsenal and Tottenham target Miralem Pjanic has said that he wants to remain with current club Roma despite being linked with a move to north London.

The 23-year-old midfielder joined the Serie A side in 2011 from Ligue 1 club Lyon for a reported £9.5m, but he is now thought to be worth closer to £20m.

Having moved to Italy on a four-year deal, Pjanic is yet to sign a contract extension, but that does not mean he will be leaving despite interest elsewhere.

"I don't want to leave. Everyone at the club knows that," Pjanic told Roma's official website.

"I've always wanted to stay here. I want to give everything to start the season well.

"I don't know about the financial situation at the club. A new contract? It doesn't happen overnight. We're talking about it.

"The desire is there and we'll see what happens in the future."

Pjanic also spoke of his desire to fight for his place in the starting line-up, with a number of midfielders being available to coach Rudi Garcia.

"There are a number of us in that position (midfield) and whoever's on form will be in the team," Pjanic continued.

"The coach will find the right system. We need to do what we can to let the new signings settle.

"There are some great players who can help us to achieve success. Then it'll be up to the coach to decide who to pick."