Former Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde is being linked with Diego Simeone's job at Atletico Madrid.

Simeone is under pressure at Atletico after an underwhelming LaLiga campaign, though Atletico still have a round of 16 Champions League tie with Manchester United.

Sport says Atletico directors are adamant the Argentine is safe and will only leave of his own accord for what he has given the club over the last ten years.

But should Simeone choose to walk in the summer - or sooner - Atletico have Valverde as their top choice to replace him.

Simeone has a deal with Atletico to 2024.