Gameiro's absence speaks volumes

Atletico Madrid played their penultimate pre-season friendly tonight against Cagliari. There was a notable absense from the squad - that of Kevin Gameiro. The French striker did not even make the bench for 'Atleti'.

The situation suggests that Gameiro is on his way out of the club. Simeone evidently does not see a future for the player at Atletico, and the club are listening to offers from other clubs. Valencia looked like favourites to land Gameiro, though this interest appears to have suddenly cooled. 

'Los Rojiblancos' and Valencia have an agreement, with Simeone's side accepting the €16m that they demanded for the forward's services, though talks seem to have fallen apart between the two parties.

That is why Atletico have once again decided to listen to offers for Gameiro. According to 'Marca', Borussia Dortmund are now in pole position to land the Frenchman after offering €23m to the Spanish side. 

It is understood that Gameiro wants to play for Valencia, but Atletico may opt for money rather than player's preference.