‘Not even thought about it’: £18m man doesn’t want Everton or West Ham move

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Martin Braithwaite has his heart set on staying at Barcelona for a “long time” and has no plans to join West Ham United or Everton this summer, he told BT.

One of the most controversial signings in Spanish football history did nobody any favours in the end.

Barca were given special dispensation by La Liga in February to sign a new forward outside the transfer window because of an apparent injury crisis at Camp Nou.

And Leganes could do no more than watch in horror as the Catalan kings triggered the £18 million release clause in their star man’s contract.

To rub salt in the wounds, Leganes were relegated four months later while Braithwaite sat twiddling his thumbs on the Barca bench.

Understandably, the 27-year-old is determined to ensure he makes a success of a Barca career that, so far, has been a bit of a farce.

“To be honest, I haven’t talked to anyone about changing clubs,” the Denmark international told BT. “I haven’t even thought about it. I only think about how to play well for Barcelona next season. I am hungry to play and win many titles.

“I see myself here for a long time. In those conversations (between me and my agent) there has been no talk (about a transfer) and nothing from other clubs.”

Mundo Deportivo reported in July that Everton and West Ham were interested in the former Middlesbrough forward. The same publication claimed just weeks ago that negotiations between Barcelona and the Hammers had reached an “advanced stage”.

And while Braithwaite has made his feelings clear, don’t be surprised if Barca decide to cash in if any acceptable offer arrives for a man who has just four La Liga starts and one goal for the club.

After all, they have an exhaustive rebuilding project that needs financing.