Kevin Gameiro has revealed to L’Equipe that signing for Atlético Madrid was his best option on a “sporting level”, despite having been offered more money to go to the Premier League. He also said that he rejected the possibility of moving to Barcelona, where he “would have had less minutes.”

Simeone factor key

The French forward, who was unable to make his Rojiblanco debut against Crotone owing to a muscle injury, arrived at the Vicente Calderón for a fee of €32 million after netting 29 goals last season for Sevilla. For Gameiro, the Diego Simeone factor was also key to his decision in joining Atléti. “He told me he was looking for a player like me, who was capable of providing strength in defence as well as attack. Simeone wanted someone who could blend in with the group.”

Full screen KEVIN GAMEIRO unveiled at the Vicente Calderón EMILIO COBOS (DIARIO AS)

"I'd have been fourth choice at Barça"

Despite Barcelona’s interest, the 29-year old didn’t seriously consider the chance to pull on the azulgrana shirt. “It’s more probable that I would have stayed in Sevilla than go to Barça,” he said. “I knew that if I went there I’d be fourth-choice striker. I think my playing time would have been reduced.

“[Atlético] was, more than anything, a sporting option. My agents informed me of offers at a more attractive financial level, but I wanted to stay in Spain. My finally and I like it here and La Liga is one of the best competitions.”