Isco rules out Real Madrid exit amid Tottenham, Malaga interest

Midfielder Isco clarified speculation over his future with Real Madrid on Wednesday, telling reporters that he's staying at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Several Madrid players stand in the way of the 24-year-old, who's well down Zinedine Zidane's pecking order.

Spanish newspaper AS indicated Isco had spoken with Tottenham about a possible loan move, while Malaga president Abdullah Al Thani hinted at a potential return to the south coast.

But the Spaniard extinguished those rumours with a brief statement to local media: "I'm staying, I'm staying."

It suggests he has the desire to fight for his place in a stacked Madrid midfield. Isco will have to compete with the likes of James Rodriguez, Mateo Kovacic, and Marco Asensio. Toni Kroos, Casemiro, and Luka Modric are all assured of starting roles.

Isco is coming off a disappointing season with Los Blancos, which saw him relegated to the substitutes' bench.

Rarely used in Zidane's first weeks as manager, Isco did earn more playing time in April and May - including a 48-minute appearance in the Champions League final.