According to Goal Gossip, Atlético Madrid are showing strong interest in appointing Arda Turan, the current head coach of Shakhtar Donetsk, to their backroom staff next season. The 38-year-old Turkish manager has quickly made a name for himself in coaching after a distinguished playing career, which included a memorable spell with Atlético between 2011 and 2015.

The report claims that the proposal came directly from current Atlético boss Diego Simeone, who holds Turan in high regard after their successful years together in Madrid. Turan is said to appreciate the gesture but remains fully committed to his project in Ukraine. His contract with Shakhtar Donetsk runs until 2027.

Sources close to the situation note that this interest from Atlético could represent “a stepping stone” for Turan, who has long dreamed of returning to Madrid in a coaching capacity — and potentially one day succeeding Simeone himself. For now, however, Shakhtar remains his top priority as he continues to build his managerial career.