Chelsea forward Diego Costa has been widely linked with a return to his former club Atletico Madrid following the Blues’ disappointing efforts on defending the title last season.
The Calderon manager Diego Simeone opened the door for a potential exit from the Spanish side following his team’s second defeat inside three years against Real Madrid in the Champions League final last weekend, but has promised to consider a stay if the club are able to lure Costa back under his management.
According to ESPN FC, the Argentine manager “told the club to sign Costa if they want him to stay”, which has left the Blues “bracing themselves for a massive bid”.
Costa has been previously indicated to be keen on a move back, but according to quotes from Chelsea insiders, the forward is ready to stay at Stamford Bridge and fight for his place under the incoming Antonio Conte.
The West London are determined to end the speculation of Costa moving elsewhere, and are prepared to make him a star man next season, Marca reports.
The 27-year-old striker was left out of Spain’s provisional Euro 2016 squad due to his fitness concerns, and will have to see his side defending the title from the sidelines.
