Chelsea’s Costa: I tried to force through Atletico move

Diego Costa has let the worst kept secret out of the bag by confirming he tried to force through a move to Atletico Madrid last summer before returning to the Blues with his tail between his legs.

The Spanish striker has been pivotal in Chelsea’s outstanding campaign, which looks likely to bring them a second Premier League title in three seasons.

But Costa’s time at Stamford Bridge has been far from straightforward – with ill-discipline on the pitch and an unsettled life off it dominating the headlines.

The 28-year-old joined Chelsea three seasons ago from Atletico Madrid, but after a miserable second campaign under Jose Mourinho he looked set to depart but the Blues held firm.

“Atletico knows I have a special feeling for the team, I lived the best moment of my career there. El Cholo [Diego Simeone] knows it wasn’t impossible for me to come back to Atletico,” he said.

“The relationship with Conte didn’t start well because when he arrived I told him I wanted to go to Atletico. Chelsea’s fans love me a lot, even more than in Atletico, figure that!

“When Atletico had to wait for me they didn’t, there was still a month to go in the transfer market.

“I’ve done everything to come back to Atletico Madrid but I wouldn’t fight the same to return. When Atletico didn’t wait for me, I had to go to Conte with the tail between my legs.”