Axed Spain coach Luis Enrique is being linked with Atletico Madrid.

Atletico are considering Enrique as a replacement for Diego Simeone. The Argentine failed to qualify for the knockout phase of the Champions League, nor did he even take them into the Europa League as a consolation prize, says Sport.

Cholo could even decide not to fulfill the remaining year of his contract with the Rojiblancos and leave the team that he has led for more than 10 seasons. His status at the club is on the brink after jeopardising a place in next season's top European competition.

Spain and Atletico midfielder Koke has expressed his admiration for Luis Enrique: "He's a spectacular coach. It's a different idea from what we have now at Atlético, but why not?"

Also the Atletico CEO has =opined on Luis Enrique since Spain's World Cup elimination.

"I like him a lot personally and professionally," Miguel Ángel Gil Marín said. "I think he has the talent to coach any team in our league."