Premier league sides Chelsea and Manchester City will face stiff competition from Spanish side Barcelona for Koke as reports in Spain indicate that the Blaugrana have identified him as the ideal replacement for club stalwart Xavi.
The Atletico Madrid attacker still has five years remaining on his contract as he contracted with the club till 2019 but could still move if a good offer comes in and Atletico find it too god to be turned down.
Atletico manager Diego Simeone could be forced to sell one of his star players like he did in July as his side haven’t been in the best financial condition. Koke’s departure will bring the at least £55m as it’s the reported fee that Barcelona, Manchester City and Chelsea will have to pay in order to sign him.
Manchester City were slight underdogs in signing Koke as they have been pegged back by the new financial fair play rules. Chelsea did strengthen in the summer but spent money wisely and made a net profit. They already look invincible with their current squad and will make a huge statement to the rest of Europe if they sign Koke. However, Barca are set to rock the Premier League duo with a bid and it is more likely that Koke will prefer joining his Spanish team mates at Camp Nou and work his way up rather than moving to England and fight for his starting berth.
The Atletico Madrid academy graduate has achieved a lot in his relatively young career. He can play as a winger on either side but is primarily and attacking midfielder. Since stepping up from the academy, the 22-year old has made 186 appearances for the club. He has also represented Spain at every level; u16, u17, u19, u20, u21, u23 and the senior side.
Koke was one of the key players in Simeone’s title-winning side last season and has carried his brilliant form into this season and is making a habit of providing assists. In his 17 appearances this season, he has been a key playmaker for his side after having created 12 goals.