But the Blues opted for Juan Cuadrado instead…
Shakhtar Donetsk attacking midfielder Douglas Costa has revealed that Chelsea tried to sign him in the January transfer window.
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The Daily Express reports that Jose Mourinho had targeted the 24-year-old over the winter window but the Ukranian club wanted over €30 million for him.
Chelsea eventually signed Juan Curadrado from Fiorentina instead for over £26 million.
Costa has now confirmed that there was contact with the Blues but says that even though a move didn’t materialise, just being linked with a switch has motivated him to become a better player.
“Yes, I had a contact [with Chelsea] and the chance to work with a coach like Jose Mourinho always motivates a player,” said Costa to Goal.com, via Daily Express.
“I am very grateful for the kindness he showed with me.
“He is a very smart coach and who won [titles] wherever he has gone.”