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Diego Simeone ‘not surprised’ by Chelsea’s transfer interest in Jan Oblak but hopes keeper stays at Atletico Madrid
ATLETICO MADRID boss Diego Simeone has revealed he isn't surprised by Chelsea's interest in Jan Oblak but hopes he remains part of his squad.
The 27-year-old - widely regarded as the best goalkeeper in the world - has been linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge in a swap deal with Kepa Arrizabalaga.
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It has been claimed that the Blues have made the Slovenian their No1 shot-stopper target, and will offer Kepa plus cash in order to land him.
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Oblak - tied down at the Wanda Metropolitano until 2023 - boasts a mammoth release clause of £120million.
And he will be hoping to be named as LaLiga's Best Goalkeeper for the fifth year running at the end of the season.
Commenting on the Blues' reported interest in the player, Simeone said: "I am not very surprised because every year at the end of the season all our most important players are under the radar of the most important teams of the world.
"I think it is normal they are always looking for the best players as we have many in our team.
"In previous seasons, some players left the club and others remained, but I think it is logical a player like Oblak is wanted by many teams.
"He is our captain and a very important player in the last few years.
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"I hope he can continue with us because he is very important for Atletico Madrid."
Another player Atletico will be hoping they keep is midfielder Thomas Partey - who been heavily linked with a move to join Arsenal.
But in a huge blow for the Gunners, it has been claimed that the Ghanaian international is set to snub their interest and commit his future to the Spanish side.
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