EPL manager preferred candidate for Atletico Madrid owner to replace Simeone

Atletico Madrid are far from parting ways with Diego Simeone, but they are starting to wonder what life would be like without the Argentine at the helm for the second time in 13 years. There are names on the table that have attracted the attention of those responsible at the Metropolitano.

According to Relevo, football director Carlos Bucero, who appears to be diluting Simeone's influence, is a fan of West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui and Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente. The pair have both been represented by Bucero in the past and certainly have strong track records.

Meanwhile, Jürgen Klopp is also appreciated, despite his retirement as a coach, and Mauricio Pochettino has been highly regarded in the past. Atletico B manager Fernando Torres is a club legend and also has a lot of support within the club after impressing with the under-19s. The manager most valued by major shareholder Miguel Angel Gil Marin is Aston Villa's Unai Emery, who has done a great job in the Midlands. It is noted that it would be difficult to sign him from Villa Park, but it could be a possibility down the road.

There are several steps that need to happen before Simeone can leave Atletico, not least if he agrees. But it will be a tough job to replace a man who has become the face of the club over the past decade. If Simeone is replaced, Atletico will need a strong personality to handle that shift and the pressure that will undoubtedly come from it.