Madrid club are intent on retaining the services of Chelsea’s top transfer target.
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Atletico Madrid sporting director Jose Luis Caminero has insisted that the La Liga title favourites intend to keep star striker Diego Costa this summer.
Costa, who has scored 34 goals in 40 club appearances this season, appears to be top of Chelsea’s transfer wish-list, as Blues manager Jose Mourinho looks to bolster his attacking options.
However, the 25-year-old has over four years remaining on his current contract at the Vicente Calderon Stadium and Caminero is adamant that Atletico do not need to sell their prized asset.
According to Sky Sports, Caminero told Movistar: “We have renewed almost everyone, including Diego Costa [on a deal through to 2018].
“So our mind is set on keeping that block [of players] and slowly bringing some more players in that can go with this project.
“So we want all our great players, Diego Costa included, to continue here. And next season, at the moment, is planned with him.”
Atletico have a history of selling their best players for big money, having received a over £100m in transfer fees from the sales of Fernando Torres, Sergio Aguero and Radamel Falcao to Liverpool, Manchester City and Monaco respectively in recent years.
However, with the club on the verge of being crowned champions of Spain for the first time since 1996, they are in a much stronger position to convince their stars to stay.
Costa may be keen on a move to Stamford Bridge, though. The player applauded Blues fans following last Tuesday’s 0-0 draw between Atletico and Chelsea. The supporters had been singing: “Diego Costa, we’ll see you next year.”
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