Filipe Luís set for Atlético stay

When last we checked in on Filipe Luís, the veteran left back was contemplating seriously a move to Paris Saint-Germain. Reportedly encouraged by national teammate Neymar, Filipe was said to have reached an agreement on a lucrative two-year contract with an option for a third season. Last week, Spanish media ran the story that Atlético Madrid knew their left back wanted to go and told him that if he could convince PSG to part with a fee between €20 million and €30 million — the player’s release clause — he would get his “dream” move.

But with only a few days left before the transfer window shuts, the Filipe front has gone silent. The 33-year-old is said to be surprised that PSG hesitated to pay Atlético’s asking price, and the Ligue 1 champions have turned their attention to Bayern Munich’s Juan Bernat — who, like Filipe, is out of contract next summer but is available for less than €20m. Atleti took a strong stance on the player and PSG never made an official offer for him, even as he was their first choice to replace the departed Yuri Berchiche.

Los rojiblancos may offer Filipe a new contract once his continuity is assured, but his situation remains unclear. The Brazilian has fallen behind World Cup winner Lucas Hernández in Diego Simeone’s pecking order and has cut a frustrated figure according to reports, so his attitude moving forward — especially when the window re-opens in January — will be worth watching. Because of Lucas’ versatility, Filipe may still get several opportunities to get the playing time he wants in the capital.