Manchester United manager David Moyes is set to activate Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke's £16 million release clause in the January transfer window, according to the Daily Star. The 21-year-old was a target for retired Sir Alex Ferguson last season thanks to his pivotal role in helping Atletico win the Copa del Rey. And Fergsuon's successor, Moyes, has been equally impressed by Koke's form this season, too, with the Spain international helping his side to eight wins from as many league games, putting them joint-top with Barcelona in La Liga. The former Everton boss is keen on bringing him to Old Trafford following a miserable summer transfer window and having realised his side need an injection of creativity in the middle of the park. However, he could face competition from Barcelona. Barca are also interested in Koke, as they see him as the heir apparent to maestro Xavi. With Xavi, 33, now in the final stages of his career, the Spanish champions are hopeful Koke will leave Atletico and move to the Nou Camp to replace their creative talisman. Koke is contracted at the Estadio Vicente Calderón club until 2018, but both United and Barca will be encouraged by the existence of the £16 million release clause in his contract.
Joseph is an accredited football journalist and has interviewed nearly all of the current 20 Barclay's Premier League managers. He is also a correspondent for Bleacher Report and has written for Caught Offside and Give Me Football.
