Perez not looking to leave Benfica this summer
Benfica midfielder Enzo Perez, reportedly a transfer target for Manchester United, has quashed reports of a move away from Portugal.
The Argentina international has been linked with a move to Old Trafford after impressing for the Primeira Liga champions last season.
His club form caught the eye of Alejandro Sabella and earned him a place at the World Cup, where he made three appearances, including a start in the final that Argentina eventually lost 1-0 to Germany.
Strengthening the midfield appears to be a top priority for Louis van Gaal, with the likes of Kevin Strootman, Arturo Vidal, Juan Cuadrado and Perez among the players reportedly interesting the new United boss.
Yet Perez, who has also been the subject of apparent interest from Valencia, is happy plying his trade in Portugal.
"I am very calm, comfortable and happy at Benfica," he told O Jogo. "On Monday, I travel to Portugal and if the opportunity arises to leave, it must be a mutual decision.
"I personally am not looking to leave."
Perez is also hoping international team-mate Sergio Romero moves to Estadio da Luz after his loan spell with Monaco came to an end.
Get FourFourTwo Newsletter
The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.
The goalkeeper returned to parent club Sampdoria, but is believed to be close to completing a switch to the Portuguese capital.
"During the World Cup I told him about the club," Perez added. "He is a great person and a better professional.
"In addition, Benfica needs people with experience in the squad."
‘After Manchester City’s recent form, maybe they’re the underdogs against Manchester United!’ Former Red Devils defender on this weekend’s derby
‘Arteta, Alonso, Emery, me… none of us were physical players – we needed the understanding of the game. That probably helped us move into management’: Premier League boss reveals reasons for natural career progression