During an interview after Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Aston Villa on Tuesday, as quoted by 90 min, Sadio Mane has put the rumours surrounding him to bed by insisting he is happy at Liverpool.

The Senegalese international has recently been heavily linked with Barcelona and Bayern Munich.

Sadio Mane is a modern-day great for Liverpool, having played his part in the Reds’ ascent in the last few years. The 30-year-old has linked up magnificently with Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino to forge a formidable attacking trifecta, guiding Liverpool to several trophies, including the UEFA Champions League and the elusive Premier League title.

The Senegalese international has turned out 266 times for Liverpool thus far, amassing 119 goals and 47 assists in the process. But Mane’s contract situation has left Liverpool in a spot of bother over his long-term future, with his deal running out next year. Such a situation has captured the attention of Barcelona.

The interest from Barcelona comes in the wake of the unending uncertainties surrounding the future of Ousmane Dembele. In addition, Barcelona will unlikely secure the services of Adama Traore on a permanent deal, while Memphis Depay’s position at Camp Nou is increasingly precarious amid widespread speculation surrounding him.

Mane has thus emerged as a viable target, with recent reports even claiming that he is open to joining Barcelona. But after scoring the match-winner in Liverpool’s hard-fought 2-1 win over Aston Villa earlier this week, Mane has looked to put the rumours to bed, insisting he is happy at Anfield.

The Liverpool forward said, “Yeah, I am happy here. I think when we win trophies I am happier!" But I think I am trying to enjoy every moment, trying to assist my teammates, and I think the boys make it a lot easier for me, and I am very happy. ”

Recent reports have claimed that Liverpool will soon re-open contract renewal talks with Mane, and the Senegalese international’s comments will give the Reds’ hopes of tying him down to a new deal a boost.

But Barcelona will surely look to put a spanner in the works for Liverpool, setting up an intriguing next few weeks. Meanwhile, Mane is also the subject of interest from Bayern Munich, who will monitor the development closely.