Chelsea and Man United target Nathaniel Clyne makes top four admission

Clyne is expected to join Man United or Chelsea. Credit: PA

Southampton right-back Nathaniel Clyne believes the Champions League is the "next step" in his progression as he looks to keep hold of an England shirt he has been told is his to lose.

The 24-year-old has reportedly attracted the attention of Chelsea and Manchester United but, while "flattered" at such talk, he insists his mind is set on helping the Saints achieve a top-four finish in the Barclays Premier League.

Speaking at a FootballFightingEbola charity event, quoted in several national newspapers, Clyne said: "I'm flattered by the interest from the big clubs. It shows that I'm doing well and I've had a good season.

"I'm definitely ambitious. Every player would love to be playing in the Champions League and winning trophies and titles. That's what you play football for - that's the dream.

"I would say [Champions League football] is the next step in my progression. I think I need experience playing European football.

We're doing well with Southampton and hopefully we can get there. That would be great. So I'm just concentrating on Southampton. There are a few more games to play, so I'm just concentrating on getting to the fourth spot."