In an interview with AS, the former France defensive midfielder is quoted as saying he will hang up his boots and become PSG's new sporting director from the start of next season.

But a statement released on PSG's website this afternoon read: "The PSG midfielder is keen to deny the words attributed to him today in Spanish daily AS, concerning his future at PSG.

"Claude Makelele wants to confirm that he never declared wanting to bring an end to his career and become sporting director at the end of the season.

"For the moment, Claude Makelele has taken no decision concerning his future and still feels himself a PSG player."

The 36-year-old, whose move to PSG from Chelsea last summer has sparked a revival in fortunes at the capital club, is quoted as telling AS it was time for younger players such as France and Real Madrid anchorman Lassana Diarra to take over his mantle.

"I'm going to retire this year," he is believed to have said.

"I will work for PSG as a sporting director. I would like to get the club back to the level they were before.

"When I arrived, they were low down and on the point of going down to Ligue 2. I am happy to help them.

"In June, I will hang up my boots. I've made the absolute most of my life and now's the time for youngsters. And now there is my little one 'Lass'."

Makelele said earlier this year he would make up his mind about his future at the end of the season.

His arrival, along with other key summer signings such as Ludovic Giuly, Stephane Sessegnon and Guillaume Hoarau, has helped turn PSG into Ligue 1 title contenders this season.

In the previous two campaigns the club has struggled to avoid relegation but this season they are just four points off top spot with nine rounds of fixtures left.

PSG have also made it through to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Cup.

Makelele, who has appeared 71 times for France and has played for the likes of Real Madrid and Chelsea in a distinguished club career, is tipping Diarra for great things.

The 24-year-old Diarra is a France regular who joined Real Madrid from Portsmouth in January, and plays in the same position as Makelele.

"He's a hard-working and respectful lad. I'm happy that he's doing so well at Madrid," said Makelele.

"When he arrived, no one knew him. That's how I landed in Madrid. He has come on to the scene in a quiet way but this boy has a very good future.

"He will get to a better level than I did."