Arda Turan has reportedly informed Atletico Madrid of his desire to leave the club, citing unhappiness with Diego Simeone’s style of play.
The former Galatasaray midfielder has been at the Vicente Calderon since 2011, but reports in Spain suggest he wants to play for a team who will offer him more freedom to go forward.
Atleti have become renowned their tireless workrate and uber-physical approach under the Argentine, with the No 10 playing a key role in the side’s functionality during that time.
However, he was recently singled out for criticism by Simeone in the media for not living up to the standards he set in the side’s La Liga-winning 2013-14 campaign the following year.
It is understood that Arda has not spoken to Atleti yet, but his wishes were made clear by his agent Ahmet Bulut 10 days ago.
Although the Turkey international, whose contract expires in 2017, has a €41m release clause, Los Colchoneros are reportedly prepared to negotiate with rivals near that figure.
Barca are believed to be favourites for his signature, with Mundo Deportivo claiming Josep Maria Bartomeu will sign him if he is re-elected President next month.
