Atletico determined to keep Falcao

In comparison with many of their rivals, it has been a relatively quiet summer on the transfer front for Manchester City. Roberto Mancini has been linked with countless big name stars, although it appears as though one of these rumours won’t be coming to fruition after Atletico Madrid announced that Falcoa was not for sale under any circumstances.

The reports linking the 26-year-old to the Etihad Stadium certainly weren’t surprising, with Falcoa regarded as one of the best strikers on the continent. After joining Porto from River Plate several years ago, the Columbian has established himself as one of the most promising prospects in the world having scored 108 goals during his time at the club. It prompted Atletico to shell out a reported €40 million last summer – meaning that they would be looking for an even more substantial figure now.

Such form has meant that Atletico have become extremely protective of their starlet, with Jose Luis Caminero dismissing any talk that the striker could leave the club. He told AS, “Falcao will remain at Atletico Madrid and any talk of an exit is misplaced. The club has very clear ideas on this. The striker will remain with us next season and we are not considering any other possibility.”

As well as his fantastic record on the Spanish domestic scene, Falcao has also established himself in European competitions. He recently beat the record set by Jurgen Klismann, after managing an incredible fifteen goals in one Europa League campaign. His record for Columbia certainly isn’t too bad either, with Falcao managing eleven goals in thirty six appearances.

Of course, considering City’s vast spending power, such comments are unlikely to deter Roberto Mancini from making an approach should he have serious interest in the player. Should City decide to make an offer, it would cast considerable doubt on the future of several of their other strikers. There have been reports linking Edin Dzeko, Mario Balotelli and Carlos Tevez away from the club over recent months, and the acquisition of another attacking player may force at least one of the above out of the Etihad Stadium.