Ateltico Madrid’s Antoine Griezmann and Diego Simeone have once again been subjected to speculation regarding a move to Chelsea FC.
Antoine Griezmann has spent the best part of a year being linked with a Stamford Bridge switch after a scintillating campaign last time out. While no deal materialised over the summer, Chelsea’s struggles in this campaign have only furthered speculation as the Blues seek a saviour to bolster their flailing squad.
However, as rumours continue to cycle through the mill the Frenchman has once again reiterated his desire to stay at the Vicente Calderon (or the Estadio La Peineta when Ateltico move).
"I’m fine here, I’m at ease. I want to continue here and I think the club’s intention is not to sell, so I’m not going. – via The Evening Standard"
More chelsea fc: Reports: Eden Hazard To Snub Big Money Offers
After a slow start, Griezmann sparked into life in the red and white stripes last season, driving the Spaniards into contention across all competitions yet again. However, given Atletico’s history of letting their best players go should the money be right, the forward was linked with a big money transfer throughout the summer.
Having said that, as Diego Simeone’s men continue contend in both Europe and the league and with an impending transfer embargo, they may be changing their policy. Atletico is now an attractive destination for the world’s best and thus it is no surprise that Griezmann is eager to stay in the Spanish capital.
Simeone, meanwhile, has been rumoured to be one of Chelsea’s primary targets regarding their managerial situation. The Argentine tactician has worked miracles with the previously snubbed Real Madrid neighbours, turning them into one of football’s finest clubs.
As a result, he has garnered attention across Europe, with hopeful fans linking him with jobs at Manchester United and Arsenal, in addition to the Stamford Bridge role.
More from The Pride of London
- Bournemouth 0-0 Chelsea player ratings: Abysmal, reckless, wasteful
- Bournemouth 0-0 Chelsea: 3 Blues talking points
- Bournemouth vs Chelsea: 1 Blue Mauricio Pochettino should drop
- Bournemouth vs Chelsea: 3 Blues who must start
- Predicted Chelsea lineup vs Bournemouth: Palmer starts in 4-2-3-1
Now, The Metro cite Spanish outlet La Confidencial in claiming that the Atleti boss has been taking English lessons in preparation for a switch.
"Diego Simeone is taking private English lessons with a view to becoming manager of Chelsea, according to reports in Spain."
Despite these reports, it does seem unlikely that Simeone will leave his current club, let alone assume the Blues hotseat. His bond with the Spanish outfit is strong and he is held in high regard by the fans and his players. Having come so close to a Champions League victory two seasons ago, many believe that he will stay until he reaches that ultimate goal.
The fact that he penned an extension until 2020 over the summer only reinforces that sentiment.
Next: Chelsea FC Transfer Rumours: Loic Remy May Join Chinese Exodus
Will any of these two Atletico men end up at Stamford Bridge? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!