I love Thomas Partey a lot - Diego Simeone

Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone has heaped praises on Thomas Partey over his stupendous performance in the victory over Alaves.

The Ghanaian international capped off a dominant display with a stunning goal late in the game to seal a 4-0 win.

"I love Thomas a lot and he played fantastic, he has a lot of conditions and a lot of things to improve it, the goal was fantastic and that applause will be left to remember, it is to thank the Alavés people," Simeone remarked after the match.

Despite persistent rumours that the midfielder could be on his way out of the Wanda Metropolitano, Spanish newspaper AS have claimed that the ?Atlético coaching staff consider Thomas to be essential to their plans for the future.

The 25-year-old has featured prominently under the Argentine manager this season, making 25 appearances in La Liga, and scoring three times.

The report adds Partey is being thought of by Simeone as someone to build the club around, and despite being mindful of interest from other clubs across Europe, have maintained a firm stance over his future.

The Ghanaian international is tied to the Madrid-based club until 2023 but has 50M euros buy-out clause.

Man City certainly have the financial clout to pull off such a deal, but Arsenal have struggled in the market in recent times, most notably being restricted to loan signings during the January window.

Simeone is hopeful he will remain at the club for the foreseeable future, but his resolve could be tested if a formal bid is launched when the market reopens.