Man Utd turning their attentions to Atletico Madrid star Koke

Manchester United’s beleaguered boss David Moyes, has set tongues wagging by turning up at the Vincente Calderon to cast his eye over one of Atletico Madrid’s brightest talents, Koke.

The 21-year-old Spanish midfielder was in action for Diego Simeone’s exciting Atletico team, as they brushed aside Porto 2-0, to romp into the last 16 of the Champions League as group winners having dropped just two points along the way.

Watching on from the stands was Moyes, who is believed to hold all-action midfielder Koke in such high esteem that he is weighing up an offer that could activate the player’s release clause in January.

One of the rising stars of Spanish football, Atletico acted quickly in September to ensure Koke signed a new deal, however, a now-customary release clause was written into it, believed to be in the region of £24m.

While this is a lot of money to pay for the youngster, his performances in the heart of the Atletico Madrid midfield have earned him widespread praise in Spain – where national manager Vincente del Bosque rewarded Koke with his first few full caps this season.

Koke is renowned for his high-octane displays and although he has only chipped in with three goals this season, he has great vision for a pass and could be exactly the type of player to reinvigorate United’s lacklustre engine room.

Although United are safely through in the Champions League as group winners – where they are due a favourable draw and priced at 16/1 to win it – their Premier League title defence is currently in tatters.

Being able to land Koke would be a massive coup for Moyes after such a torrid time in the market this summer and punters can even take a slice of the action by backing the Koke transfer to become a January reality at 12/1 with Ladbrokes.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

Fancy a flutter? Sign up today to claim three £10 free bets when you bet £10.