Diego Simeone: 'Radamel Falcao crucial for Atletico Madrid'

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has claimed that in-demand striker Radamel Falcao is "crucial" for the Spanish club.

The Colombian forward, who has scored 20 goals in 17 matches this season, has been linked with moves to Chelsea, Manchester City and Barcelona.

"Falcao is crucial [to Atletico] and he has progressed a lot," Simeone told The Spectator.

"I had never seen such desire, because he has a hunger, a need for improving and becoming better. He knows that this is his strength, such is his forcefulness to succeed."

Atletico Madrid return to La Liga duties on January 6 when they travel to Mallorca.