Atletico Madrid could retain Thomas Partey next season after Diego Simeone reportedly vetoed another loan departure for the midfielder.
Los Colchoneros are believed to have prioritised the signing of a new defensive midfielder, with Mario Suarez expected to leave for Italy and links with Thiago Motta refusing to die down.
However, a solution could be closer to home in the form of the 22-year-old, who scored four goals in 31 appearances for relegated Almeria last season.
According to AS, Getafe and Rayo Vallecano have made enquiries for the Ghanaian, but his pre-season performance levels have given Simeone food for thought.
Consequently, Thomas is now expected to stay at Atleti for the foreseeable future, unless a move for Motta regains momentum.