Chelsea have suffered an early summer setback after Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke revealed he has no plans to leave the Spanish capital at the end of the season.
Koke appeared to be one of Mourinho’s main transfer targets this summer, alongside Atletico team-mate Antoine Griezmann, as the Blues boss looks to improve on his title-winning squad.
The La Liga side, who appear reluctant to let either player go this summer, plan on increasing the release clause in both players respective contracts to £100m, in an attempt to ward off Chelsea’s interests.
And whilst Griezmann appears open to a move to the Premier League champions, Koke has now stated that he wishes to stay with Diego Simeone’s side.
Yes, I will play here
The 23-year-old replied when questioned about his future. The Spanish international also encouraged his side to re-sign Blues left-back Filipe Luis.
The Brazilian defender has been linked with a move back to Madrid as a means of starting negotiations between the two sides for Koke and Griezmann, following his £15.8m move to the Bridge last summer.
Koke spoke highly of the left-back and hopes he is given the opportunity to return to Atletico. “Filipe is more than a team-mate, he is a friend, so he would be welcome here.”
