Atletico Madrid have reportedly made their final offer for Chelsea striker Diego Costa, putting up €55m plus €10m in bonuses, and expect to finally re-sign him.
The 28-year-old has refused to return to Chelsea this season after a summer spat with coach Antonio Conte following claims that he was informed by text that he no longer formed part of the Italian tactician’s plans at Stamford Bridge.
Having failed to even train with the club let alone make a single appearance this season, Costa has been seeking an exit and it appears as though he could get his wish this week.
As reported by Marca, Atleti wanted to wrap up the transfer last week and potentially unveil him at the unveiling of their new stadium this past weekend.
That didn’t materialise, but it’s now reported that they’ve offered €65m in total for the Spanish international, and are waiting for the final few problems and details to be ironed out so that they can complete the deal and welcome their former striker back.
It’s been 98 days since Costa last played a game, and so with Atleti unable to officially register him until January when their transfer embargo ends, should a deal be announced, he’ll undoubtedly spend the upcoming months getting back into shape and working on his match fitness.
Nevertheless, based on this report, it sounds as though he’s finally going to get what he’s been pushing for. Atleti, albeit at a high price, are re-signing their former hero and Chelsea are getting a very decent transfer fee which could be reinvested in Conte’s squad in January or next summer. Winners all round.