Simeone: 'Mandzukic not up to me'

By Football Italia staff

Atletico Madrid Coach Diego Simeone admits he wants to keep Juventus target Mario Mandzukic, but “it’s up to the club.”

Simeone spoke to Radio Marca today about the transfer strategy for what is sure to be an eventful summer.

“I speak to Andrea Berta every day and we have in our minds the players this group needs to grow. Now the work is up to the club.

“Mandzukic? Who goes and who stays is not up to me. The club will decide what is best. We are happy with Mandzukic, he had a very competitive campaign.

“Of course, at Atletico there are few players who can be considered untouchable: Koke, Godin and that’s about it, I’d say.”

The Croatia international has been heavily linked with a move to Turin, especially as Carlos Tevez is on the verge of returning to Boca Juniors.

In fact, Tevez had been a target for Atleti, but had pledged to go back ‘home’ to his beloved club.

“I like Tevez, of course. I like Mandzukic, Araujo, Filipe Luis…” added Simeone.

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