Turan dreading Falcao departure

Atletico Madrid midfielder Arda Turan says Radamel Falcao would leave a sizeable gap behind if he was to leave the club anytime soon.

The Colombian departed Porto for the Spanish capital last year in a 40-million-euro deal.

In his debut season he fired the side to fifth place in La Liga and Europa League glory.

He has maintained his goalscoring form this term with 13 strikes in nine matches to date but his long-term commitment to the Vicente Calderon appears clouded, as big clubs circle the prolific striker.

“It would be difficult if Falcao left,” Turan told Milliyet. “(Falcao is) very humble, not selfish and has the respect of everyone.

Turan then spoke about Atletico’s intentions to win a trophy by the end of the season, and also moved to deny reports coming from Turkey that he wants to leave Spain in favour of a return to his homeland.

“The favourites for La Liga are Barca and Madrid,” he said. “Trying to break them up is difficult but we want to be in contention for titles.

“I have no plans to return to Turkey. I want to play at Atletico for a long time. I’m happy with this team. If I was not well here, I would have the option of going to another club.”