Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa is set to leave the club after returning in 2018, following a 3 and a half year stint at Chelsea that saw him manage to find the back of the net 58 times in 120 appearances, as well as assist 24 during his time with the Blues.
Costa was extremely significant in Chelsea’s Premier League title-winning team and is still missed by fans as one of the best strikers since the departure of the legendary Didier Drogba.
The 32-year-old is reportedly being spoken to by Chinese, as well as Brazilian clubs, but considering that he might still have a few good years left to give to European football, a move to one of the big names in need of a backup striker could also be on the cards for the player.
With China’s recent wage cap in place, many players from Europe will be discouraged from heading east, with the main charm of playing in China, the monetary aspect, having been tamed by the authorities.
Confirmed. Diego Costa is set to leave Atlético and won’t extend his contract, as reported here days ago.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 27, 2020
He’s been contacted by Chinese and Brazilian clubs for January. Diego will take his time to decide his next destination. His Atléti time is over. 🔴⚪️ #Atleti @MatteMoretto https://t.co/GtB6s67WWo
The Brazilian born-Spanish international has spent a considerable amount of time on the bench owing to injury. The arrival of Luis Suarez and the emergence of Joao Felix as a top talent in the Atletico Mdiegoadrid squad has also limited the amount of game time that the player has had this season.
In 7 appearances in La Liga this season, Diego Costa has managed to score two goals only, spending only 204 minutes on the pitch.
The player’s contract expires at the end of the season, and he will be free to discuss terms with new clubs when the January transfer window opens on New Year’s Day. Fabrizio Romano reports that Costa will take his time to choose his next destination, but could leave if a suitable bid arrives in January as well.
