Argentinian legend Gabriel Batistuta has dismissed speculation linking him with a move to England and says he has no intention of leaving his Italian club Roma during the summer.

Several English teams including Chelsea, Fulham and Manchester United have been linked with the striker in the past, and Batistuta has often stated that he would relish the chance of playing in the a Premiership.

“I will respect my contract with Roma and stay here next season” he said.

The player enjoyed a spectacular first season with Roma after joining them in the summer of 2000. His goals fired Roma to the scudetto for the first time in nearly 20years, but last season he endured a torrid time with many observers saying he ws past his best.

Batistuta also claims that he has not been paying any notice to events in Japan and South Korea since his country’s first-round elimination.

“I know absolutely nothing about what is happening in the World Cup” he said. “I’m just enjoying my holidays. I’ve heard the press talking about some refereeing decisions, but I really don’t know what is going on” he added.

The 33-year-old retired from international football following Argentina’s exit from the World Cup.