Paulinho: Attracting plenty of interest, but is happy in Brazil

The 24-year-old holding midfielder is the latest Samba star to be linked with a high-profile switch to Europe.

A number of clubs are said to be weighing up the merits of an approach, with Premier League leaders Chelsea among those to be monitoring Paulinho's progress.

Corinthians, though, have no intention of selling and claim Paulinho understands that his ongoing development would be better served in his homeland.

"I have no idea where this information has come from," Corinthians manager Tite told Globo Esporte on the Chelsea rumours.

"We are at an important stage in Corinthians' history and this information will not disrupt us.

"Money doesn't buy everything. It could be a lot of money, but if the player is smart and has ambition like Paulinho does, then money will not be enough."

He added: "Everyone wants him, but that changes nothing.

"Corinthians come first. The biggest asset a club have is their players and their achievements here.

"I want him to stay and I praise Paulinho's intelligence. When he decided to stay here, he increased the value of everybody.

"He is at a club where he is settled, in a system that suits him, so his career will continue to grow."

Tite believes moving to Europe is not always the best option for a player breaking through the Brazilian ranks.

He added: "Hernanes, for example, moved to Lazio. He was doing fantastically well here, but is not playing much now.

"Paulinho was smart and everyone in Brazilian football wins.

"If one goes to another club and doesn't play, an entire career suffers. It is a missed opportunity for both the player and the club. Paulinho understands that.

"The World Cup (in 2014) will be another important step in his career, and he knows that."