Story By: Juan Mayes, Sub Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Golder’s News And Sport

Manchester City centre back Nico Otamendi has said: “Martin is a friend, not my representative” denying transfer rumours after Argie man Martin Sendeoa claimed he “is dying to play for River”.

Argentina international Otamendi, 31, made the comments on radio programme ‘Radio La Red’ broadcast by Grupo America.

During the interview, Otamendi denied claims by Sendeoa who said he “is dying to play for River but Gallardo has to call him first” referring to current River Plate boss Marcelon Gallardo, 44.

Otamendi said: “A big Argentine club, which I am a supporter of, is always tempting and has generated a lot of noise but Martin is a friend, not my representative.

“The person that manages my affairs is Jorge Mendes. I do not want to put Gallardo or River in any problems or obligate them to contact me.”

Otamendi assures he and his family are very happy in Europe and still has two years left on his contract with City but did not completely close the door on playing for the Argentine club giant, saying: “We will see later.”

The defender went on to say: “Important matches are coming up and I am trying to focus on the club, to be as professional as possible and make myself available to the manager” referring to the Champions League Round of 16 match against Real Madrid on Wednesday 26th February.

Otamendi is reportedly in the Argentine capital Buenos Aires during the Premier League winter break.

City’s next match is on Wednesday 19th February against West Ham as they sit 2nd in the league with 51 points.

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