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Thomas Tuchel responds to possible Chelsea move for Luis Suarez

By Ben Knapton, Senior Reporter | 22 February 2021

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel plays down his interest in Atletico Madrid forward Luis Suarez ahead of Tuesday's Champions League battle with Atletico Madrid.

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has played down his interest in a move for Atletico Madrid forward Luis Suarez.

The former Barcelona forward continues to star in La Liga for Atletico Madrid, with his 16 top-flight goals propelling Diego Simeone's side to the top of the La Liga table.

Atletico will take on Chelsea in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Tuesday evening, and while Tuchel has acknowledged his former interest in Suarez, he is not considering an attempt to bring the 34-year-old back to the Premier League.

Speaking to reporters about his interest in Suarez while at Paris Saint-Germain, Tuchel said: "There was a possibility, we heard rumours he was about to leave Barcelona. Who cannot be interested in one of the best strikers in history and present world football? We tried our luck."

When asked if he could reignite his interest in the South American as Chelsea search for a new striker, Tuchel responded: "I don't know. It was a moment. I think he's under contract and it's not worth thinking about."

Despite his prolific league form this season, Suarez will be aiming to open his account for the Champions League at the fifth attempt in Bucharest.