Rumour: Barcelona and Chelsea chasing Atletico midfielder Koke

Barcelona and Chelsea target Atletico’s Koke

FC Barcelona are interested in buying Atletico Madrid’s playmaker Koke.

It is widely believed that Barcelona will sell Cesc Fabregas this summer with clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United interested in buying the midfielder. Koke is expected to fill the void once Fabregas leaves the Catalan club.

But Barcelona will face a stiff competition for the 22 year old from Chelsea as Jose Mourinho looks to strengthen his squad.

Koke has been on Atletico’s books since 2009, when he was promoted from the B-team. Till now he has made 168 appearances for Los Rojiblancos, finding the net 14 times. He has also been capped 7 times by the national team after making his debut in 2013.

He also played an important part this season, as Atletico won the La Liga and also became UEFA Champions League finalist.

However Koke signed a contract extension till 2018 this January only.

Koke said “I still haven't had time to read what has come out. I am on holiday and I plan to disconnect. Barcelona is one of the best teams in the world and that they are interested in you means that you must be doing something right. That is very nice for a footballer. In any case, I only think about keeping working. I want to stay here and everyone knows it. I see myself at Atletico next season."