Transfer news: Manchester United target Koke not keen on January move

The Atletico Madrid midfielder wants to remain in Spain for now

Koke' of Club Atletico de Madrid in action during the UEFA Champions League Group G match between Club Atletico de Madrid and FC Zenit (Getty Images)

Manchester United's hopes of signing Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke have diminished after it emerged that he is unwilling to leave the Spanish club.

David Moyes' side are looking to bring in some new faces in midfield after the summer's transfer window resulted only in the acquisition of Marouane Fellaini and the 21-year-old is thought to be high on their list of targets.

However it seems they will face a real challenge if they want to lure him away from the Vicente Calderon as reports from Spain indicate Koke has no desire to leave Madrid.

The news will come as a blow to Moyes, who travelled to the Spanish capital as recently as last Wednesday, to watch the midfielder in action against Porto in the Champions League.

Koke's desire to stay at Atletico stems from his concern about how a move might affect his World Cup hopes according to reports in the Spanish media.

Also with the Rojiblancos currently enjoying a fantastic start to the season, the 21-year-old is also thought to be reluctant to leave when he has a chance of winning the La Liga title.

Diego Simeone's men are currently level on points in La Liga with leaders Barcelona, with both sides having picked up 43 points from 16 games.

With Koke's contract in Madrid running until 2018, it appears Moyes may well have to look elsewhere for reinforcements.