Costa to leave Chelsea for Atléti return

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The arrival of Michy Batshuayi to Chelsea may see Diego Costa move back to Atlético Madrid. The Brazilian born Spanish international does not appear settled at Stamford Bridge, especially after Chelsea’s turbulent season. The team missed out on European football after finishing 10th in the league, working up from a low 16th position.

The Daily Star has reported that Diego Costa is demanding a £40m return to Atléti. He feels that he has been treated unfairly by the English media and by Premier League referees and is unhappy that his reputation has suffered as a result.

These reports have emerged despite Chelsea officials claiming Costa was happy at the club and that Costa was set to play an important role under new manager Antonio Conte. Spanish paper AS reports that Conte is said to want at least two top-level forwards. The loss of Costa would mean that Conte would be looking to sign someone else to replace him. The paper has also reported Conte’s interest in Real Madrid’s Álvaro Morata in a part-exchange deal for Hazard.

Atlético are thought to have already offered Chelsea £40m with the fee likely to increase with add-ons. Diego Simeone agreed to remain at Atléti after demanding that the club sign a big-name striker. Costa still has three years left on his contract at Stamford Bridge but Atléti officials have already held talks with his agent this week.

Chelsea are already thought to be looking to sign a defender and a midfielder, they will undoubtedly look to sign another striker should Costa leave.