Manager Diego Simeone has suggested that Thomas Lemar could leave Atletico Madrid during the January transfer window.
Having failed to contributed a goal or assist all season, Atletico are allegedly willing to offload the France international, preferably on loan with a mandatory permanent move in the summer.
However, despite reported interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Wolverhampton Wanderers, the 24-year-old is said to be keen on remaining at the La Liga giants.
That appears far from a certainty, though, with Simeone acknowledging that the playmaker has not met expectations since his move to Wanda Metropolitano.
Speaking to reporters, the Argentine said: "The facts speak for themselves, better than words. It is certain that he has not been able to show all his qualities.
"Each time that he has been available, I have tried to play him. I have always been enthusiastic about his qualities as a player. He has not met the expectations set for him, but we have always had the same expectations.
"Today, who is to know if he will stay or not. His representatives are working hard. The clubs, they operate on what they need."
Lemar still has three-and-a-half years left on his contract.
Darren Plant
