Chelsea transfers: Blues interest in Diego Costa confirmed by Atletico

Atlético Madrid boss Diego Simeone Photo: The Sport Review

Diego Simeone has confirmed that Chelsea are interested in signing Diego Costa from Atletico Madrid this summer.

The Blues have been heavily linked with a £50m swoop for the striker in recent weeks as Jose Mourinho looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of next season.

It’s normal that Chelsea are interested in him. They are an economic power

Diego Simeone

Reports this week have claimed that the west London club have already agreed a deal in principal to land the Spain international, who has scored 34 goals this season.

But although Simeone has confirmed that the Premier League club are interested in recruiting the forward, the Atletico boss says the player himself will decide where his future lies.

“His future depends on him and what he feels is best for his future,” Simeone told AS.

“It’s normal that Chelsea are interested in him. They are an economic power, Samuel Eto’o is getting older and Costa can do his work, but right now he’s ours.

“If Costa decides to leave the first thing I say is ‘it’s OK by me’. Our philosophy is to improve the player, it was critical for us that Falcao went to Monaco, you cannot say no, it gave us life.”

Costa has scored 26 goals and made three assists in 31 La Liga games for Atletico Madrid this season.