"I don't want to sell him, I've no intention. This is a player who can be absolutely massive for us," Redknapp told The News.

"I think Niko got fitter last season and he'll be back this year fitter again," said Redknapp.

"I feel he can get better as well. He's a real class act. He's still only young and improving all the time.

"He can keep going on and become one of the best players in the Premier League if he keeps improving. I really, really think he can.

"He's one of our most creative players, for sure. He can do something special, he can beat someone and put a ball in. Niko has got that excellent ability."