Arsenal midfielder Edu admits he is surprised to have been issued a deadline by the club Arsene Wenger after talks over a new contract stalled.
The Brazilian has been warned that he will not be considered for selection next year if he fails to commit his future to Highbury.
“I do not know why he [Wenger] said that,” Edu told As.
“I continue belonging to Arsenal and I want to play if I am fit.
“Although the truth is that the negotiations to extend the contract are stopped, mainly due to my indecision.”
Edu is almost back to fitness but he is unlikely to figure in Sunday’s top-off-the-table clash against Chelsea.
“I was with Brazil in the Copa America and did not do pre-season with the rest of the squad,” he stated.
“When I began to play regularly, I injured myself. But I will be able to return in less than one week so I am optimistic.”
Edu admitted he was flattered by the interest shown in him by Barcelona.
“I am very happy with the interest from as great a club as Barcelona,” he stated. “With a coach like Frank Rijkaard, who was a great player and who likes good football.
“If I leave, I want to sign for a club that gives me the opportunity to win titles and participates in the great competitions. But also where I can play regularly.
“This, for me, is essential and cannot be waived.
“Barca are playing very well and can win everything this year. I know Ronaldinho well and he is, without a doubt, the best player at the moment, a special footballer who appears not very often in life.
“Yes, the truth is that it would be magnificent to be alongside him in the team.”
