Koke
Koke celebrates after scoring for Atletico Madrid. [Reuters]

Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke could have a major decision to make in January as both Liverpool and Barcelona look to convince the youngster to leave the Vicente Calderon.

The 21-year-old has been one of the standout performers in La Liga this season and has been instrumental in helping Atletico enjoy a remarkable start to the campaign that sees them sit three points ahead of bitter rivals Real Madrid.

Koke has become an integral member of Diego Simeone's side and has even forced his way into contention for Spain after making a huge impression on manager Vicente del Bosque.

His impressive performances have caught the eye of numerous clubs around Europe and the Mirror reports that Liverpool and Barcelona are both seriously interested in signing the highly-rated midfielder.

It is believed that the Spain international has a release clause of around £17m, a figure that neither Barcelona or Liverpool are likely to baulk at after he has helped Atletico move to second in the league and already qualify for the knockout stages of the Champions League.

While Reds boss Brendan Rodgers would love to add Koke to his steadily improving side he will face a tough task in convincing the midfielder to leave a club who have a genuine chance of success both domestically and in Europe.

The fact that Barcelona are also chasing the midfielder means that their task will be even more difficult as the Catalan club remain the team to beat in Spain.

However, Liverpool may hope that a guarantee of regular first team action could help Koke choose Anfield over the Camp Nou, but it will certainly not be easy negotiating with Atletico.

The Merseyside club attempted to land Diego Costa in the summer but failed to convince the Brazilian-born striker to leave Atletico.

Koke already has seven assists this season, the joint most in the league alongside Barcelona duo Cesc Fabregas and Neymar, leading many to suggest he could be a surprise addition in the Spain side at the World Cup next summer.