Koke has dealt his Premier League suitors a blow by revealing that he hopes to stay at Atletico Madrid for the rest of his career.
The Spanish midfielder, 23, has been tipped as a long-term successor to outgoing Barcelona legend Xavi.
But rather than replace him, Koke wants to replicate his World Cup-winning compatriot, and the likes of Steven Gerrard at Liverpool, by dedicating all of the best years of his career to his boyhood club.
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“Last summer I knew there was an interest from Barcelona in me. But my head was at Atletico Madrid,” he told Goal. “I grew up here, and did not have that need to go. I’m very comfortable here, and for now I don’t see the need to go.
“Real Madrid also tried to prise me away when I was with the Under-16 team. But Atletico said it would not happen. And thank God, I’m still here. Hopefully I can be a one-club man and win a lot with Atletico.
“The goodbyes to [Steven] Gerrard and Xavi [when each left Liverpool and Barcelona respectively] were spectacular. They only played for the same club in their careers, and it was very beautiful.”
Gerrard is leaving Anfield for Los Angeles Galaxy this summer, while Xavi is embarking on a fresh challenge with Qatari club Al Sadd.
Koke, who has scored 15 goals in 147 La Liga appearances for Atletico, has also been linked with Manchester United and Chelsea.
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