Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has conceded that it would be difficult for the club to re-sign Chelsea striker Diego Costa this summer.
Speculation has been rife over the Spanish international’s future, with The Telegraph reporting on possible offers from around Europe as well as China.
Much will depend on Antonio Conte when he arrives at Stamford Bridge in the summer, as the Italian tactician may want to keep Costa at all costs if he figures significantly in his plans moving forward.
However, while all concerned parties wait for that to be determined, Cerezo has conceded that he would love to take Costa back, but is aware that it would be a difficult move to complete.
“I think it’s difficult but as far as we are concerned we would love it if he came back here,” Cerezo told the Daily Mail. “It’s the Atleti way. We have a magnificent relationship with all ex-coaches and players. I went to see [Diego] Simeone in Argentina when he was at River Plate, that is the way it is with Costa.
“Whether he can come back or not is another thing but the relationship has always been fantastic. He is OK because he is at a good club. I don’t know whether they will be in the Champions League this year.”
Costa has been a controversial figure this season, with his temperament and style of play landing him in hot water, most recently when he was handed a suspension following an incident at Everton in the FA Cup last month.
While he is line to return against Manchester City this weekend, he will need to remain focused on the task in hand as he looks to help Chelsea end the season in strong fashion before his future becomes a priority.
As mentioned above, Conte’s influence in the matter will be crucial, but if the former Juventus boss doesn’t believe that Costa will feature in his plans moving forward, then perhaps Cerezo will reevaluate his options and at least try to reach an agreement with the Premier League giants.