Barcelona president Sandro Rosell has refused to comment on speculation linking his club with a move for Athletic Bilbao's Javi Martinez.

Reports in Spain had claimed that Barca were keen to secure the services of the 23-year-old following the conclusion of Euro 2012.

However, Rosell has revealed that he will not publicly discuss any transfer targets for fear that their price tags will rise.

"If we had any interest in Javi Martinez, I wouldn't admit it. If we were not interested in him, I wouldn't admit it either," Rosell told the club's official website.

"We have to go about these things with prudence and secrecy, because if we don't the price of the player goes up and that hurts Barcelona."

Bilbao recently insisted that the holding midfielder would not be allowed to leave San Mames unless his release clause was met.