Sime Vrsaljko to remain at Atletico Madrid

Liverpool have been dealt a blow in their efforts to sign Atletico Madrid defender Sime Vrsaljko.

Earlier this month, the full-back was linked with a transfer to Anfield, with Jurgen Klopp said to be prepared to spend £22m on his signature.

However, Atletico chief Andrea Berta has told Radio CRC that Vrsaljko will remain with the La Liga giants until at least the end of the season.

The Croatian international has barely been used during the current campaign, with just five appearances coming in La Liga and one start in the Champions League.

Vrsaljko - who has also been linked with Napoli and Manchester City - still has three-and-a-half years remaining on his contract.