Atletico Madrid's Sergio Aguero: I prefer to stay in Spain

The Argentine international looks set to exit Atletico with a host of clubs from around Europe said to be interested in the player who turned 23 on Thursday.

Aguero was talking after Argentina's shock 4-1 friendly defeat to Nigeria on Wednesday evening.

"I would like to continue in La Liga if possible. I like England and Italy but I prefer Spain," Aguero told TyC Sports.

Real Madrid has declared an interest in Aguero and will be buoyed by player's comments with Jose Mourinho's men believed to be willing to meet the 45 million euros buyout clause in his contract.

"I'm leaving the door open for all the clubs that are interested in me. I have told the club [Atletico] that I really want to leave. I hope they make the effort to do what's best for me," he said.

Several European sides are reported to be looking at Aguero including Chelsea, Manchester City, Juventus and Bayern Munich.

Aguero had a fine season for Atletico, scoring 20 goals in a total of 32 La Liga appearances.