Amir Khan has claimed that facing Devon Alexander in December is a more difficult challenge than any potential meeting with British rival Kell Brook.

Despite reports repeatedly suggesting that Khan could meet IBF welterweight champion Brook in the future, the 27-year-old believes that it is his bout with former world champion Alexander which can take him to the next level.

"I could have taken an easier fight in fighting Kell Brook in the UK, but that's the type of fighter I am," Khan told reporters. "I want the exciting fights, I want the tough fights and, while I'm at this age and at my peak, I want to be facing the top guys.

"No disrespect to Kell, I think if it was Kell Brook it would have been an easier fight because he doesn't throw as many punches and he is quite easy to hit even though he beat Shawn Porter, who beat Devon. Styles make fights.

"I want to give the fans what they want, they want to see this fight between me and Devon and that's what they're getting."

Khan won his most recent bout against Luis Collazo in May, while Alexander beat Jesus Soto Karass in June.