April 29, 2008 8:02 PM

SOURCE:
goal.com

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Lucho Issues Atlético Plea

Lucho González has sent out a come and get me plea to Atlético de Madrid after admitting that he wants to test himself in one of Europe's strongest leagues and leave Porto.

The Argentinian midfielder has been strongly linked to Los Colchoneros and has made his intentions known in order to help persuade the Spanish outfit to make their move.

Porto turned down offers for him last summer, but could relent this year after Lucho helped the team to the championship for the third time since joining from River Plate in 2005.

"Atlético is a great club. If they came for me, I would welcome that. But we will have to see what happens, but I hope that something can happen," he stated,

"It would be great because Atlético are a strong club and they have important Argentinian players like (Sergio) Agüero and Maxi. Also the coach is well known. I hope that if any deal is made it is good for the club and for me.

"The Portuguese league is not as significant as the Spanish or the Italian, for example. I hope to be able to move, although I would not despair if I had to stay here because I am comfortable and there are other Argentinians.

"In Atlético it could also depend whether Maxi stays because I understand that Liverpool are interested in him. Also, Javier Aguirre is not confirmed for next season either.

"Still, nobody has contacted me and everything I know is what I have read in the newspapers and on the internet."

Lucho was quick to state that he had no desire to leave Porto because of anything that had happened and it was just a case of him wanting to see if he could succeed at a different level.

"Porto have treated me very well. I have enjoyed it here and we have won three league titles, the Portuguese cup and the Super Cup. We have achieved some big things in a short space of time, so I am not desperate to leave," he continued.

"But I do want to test myself and see if I can play in other leagues."