Jorge Sampaoli claimed his focus is on Sevilla

Sevilla coach Jorge Sampaoli refused to be drawn on reports linking him as a replacement for departing Barcelona boss Luis Enrique.

Sampaoli was asked about speculation over his future following his team's 1-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao on Thursday, which maintains Sevilla's push for La Liga title.

Vicente Iborra scored the only goal of the game on 14 minutes as Sevilla moved two points behind league leaders Real Madrid.

Sevilla's midfielder Vicente Iborra scored the winning goal against Athletic Bilbao

After Real Sociedad boss Eusebio Sacristan ruled himself out of the running to replace Enrique, Sampaoli claimed he is solely focused on Sevilla.

"The Barcelona job? That question has no answer because it doesn't exist," Sampaoli said.

"I have no idea what is being said, at this stage of the season to speak of candidates doesn't make sense.

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"I am connected with this sporting project at Sevilla to death."

Sampaoli hinted that talks are planned to extend his contract with Sevilla, who are also still involved in the Champions League, holding a 2-1 advantage over Leicester ahead of the return fixture in March.

"We still haven't met with representatives to express our future projects within the structure of the club," Sampaoli said. "But to be sure, there are intentions to do so."