Stoke have been in talks with Konoplyanka’s representatives for several months but have so far been unable to convince the Ukraine international to move to the Britannia Stadium and now look increasingly likely to miss out on signing the 25-year-old.

Konoplyanka, who has also been linked with Tottenham, is in Spain with his father, who is also his agent, and is reported to have met with Atletico sporting director Andrea Berta over a possible move to Vicente Calderón Stadium.

Atletico look likely to lose Arda Turan, and Spanish newspaper AS claims Konoplyanka’s ability to play on either flank or through the middle is an attraction for Diego Simeone.

‘Konoplyanka has been offered to Atletico and is an option,’ the article reads. ‘The player is available for free and has not yet opted for any of the offers on the table.

‘Diego Simeone would like the player since he can cover several positions at the front of attack.’

Stoke are reported to be ready to make a second bid for Xherdan Shaqiri as an alternative having first tried to sign the Swiss star from Bayern Munich in January before he joined Inter Milan.

Shaqiri’s agent Arber Sakiri revealed back then that his client was seriously considering joining the Potters before opting for Serie A.

“Xherdan has been hugely impressed by Stoke City,” Sakiri told The Sun.

“Xherdan is aware Stoke do not play the type of football they did a few years ago.

“He’s aware Bojan is enjoying his football and has settled in well there and has been talking highly of the club.”

Stoke, meanwhile, look increasingly likely to sell Asmir Begovic to Chelsea, who are widely reported to have made an improved £8million offer for the goalkeeper.

Mark Hughes also faces a battle to keep hold of Steven N’Zonzi but is planning face-to-face talks with the midfielder as he enters the final year of his contract.