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Srna stays loyal to Shakhtar despite Barcelona bid

Gleb Garanich / Reuters

No one can question Darijo Srna's loyalty to Shakhtar Donetsk.

The 34-year-old right-back said Saturday he will continue to play for the club he has represented for more than a decade despite confirmed interest from Barcelona.

"My heart is with Shakhtar. I am staying in the team!" Srna said.

Manager Paulo Fonseca announced in December that Barcelona was considering a move in the January window for the former Croatia international, and out of respect for his service to the club, owner Rinat Akhmetov conceded he wouldn't block a move.

But Srna, who previously snubbed Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Borussia Dortmund to remain in Ukraine, once again resisted the overtures of a much bigger club.

Barcelona identified Srna as a potential back-up for Sergi Roberto, who has struggled to replace Dani Alves on the right flank. Aleix Vidal is another right-back at manager Luis Enrique's disposal, although the former Sevilla man has made just four starts across all competitions this season.

Srna's value to Shakhtar may not even have a price. Often called the "Icon of Shakhtar," he has done more than lead the team.

Aside from his tireless efforts for the Donbass outfit, he has helped local children, once sending 20 tonnes of tangerines from his hometown in Croatia to students living in nearby districts. He's lifted 13 trophies with Shakhtar, including the 2009 UEFA Cup, and guided his teammates when they relocated to faraway Lviv after pro-Russian separatists seized control of the Donetsk region and damaged the Donbass Arena.

His contract with Skakhtar expires in June 2017, and it remains to be seen whether he will renew his deal or explore his options as a free agent.

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