Koke has been heavily linked with a move away from Atletico Madrid…
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Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has claimed that star midfielder Koke will be going nowhere this summer, despite interest from Barcelona, Chelsea and Manchester United.
In an interview with Goal.com Simeone revealed his belief that the 22-year-old Spaniard is destined to become “one of the best midfielders in the world.”
The Argentine, who led his team to the La Liga Title and the Champions League Final last season, added that the trust he’s built up with Koke over the past three years could be the player’s main motive for ignoring transfer speculation.
Koke played an integral part in Madrid’s excellent season, appearing in 57 games in all competitions, and scoring seven goals. His recent form earned him his international debut last year, and the playmaker – seen as his country’s long-term replacement for Andres Iniesta – was subsequently included in Spain’s 2014 World Cup squad.
Manchester United are believed to be particularly keen on recruiting Koke, following their widely detailed problems in central midfield last season, while United’s Premier League rivals Chelsea and Spanish giants Barcelona have also been rumored as possible destinations. However, Jose Mourinho is likely to be satisfied with his midfield recruitment, having already signed Cesc Fabregas, while new Barca’ manager Luis Enrique is believed to have his sights set firmly on the capture of forward Luis Suarez from Liverpool.
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