Luis Suarez has revealed that he did not want to leave Atletico Madrid at the end of this season.
On the back of helping Atletico to the La Liga title in 2020-21, Suarez has played a less active role this campaign with 19 of his 44 appearances coming from the substitutes' bench.
Earlier this month, the Spanish giants confirmed that the 35-year-old would be departing Wanda Metropolitano, but it appears that the veteran's preference was to extend his stay into a third year.
Speaking to El Larguero, Suarez said: "I would have liked to continue. The director of communication told me that I was leaving the day before my dismissal. I said, 'well, at least someone tells me something!'
"Did I talk to 'Cholo [Simeone]? No. Did I talk to [Atleti sporting director Andrea] Berta? No."
While Suarez is said to have widespread interest from Europe and South America, the Uruguay international says that he wants to join another top European club.
Inter Milan, Sevilla and Aston Villa have previously been credited as possible destinations.