Diego Simeone demanding Costa to ensure Atletico Madrid stay
Atletico Madrid's interest in Diego Costa is a long-standing affair. For several months now people at the club have not hidden their intention to negotiate with Chelsea in an attempt to reach an agreement to facilitate the striker's return to the Vicente Calderon.
But according to the English press, the arrival of Costa has now become one of manager Diego Simeone's demands in order to continue.
Simeone revealed after the Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid on Saturday that he was considering his future at Atleti. Now the Daily Star say he is using doubts over his position at the club to try and push through a move for Costa. Simeone is contracted to the La Liga club until 2020.
Chelsea, meanwhile, have not wanted to negotiate the Spain international's departure, who they signed from Atletico in 2014 for 42 million euros. They insist he is happy at Stamford Bridge, that he wants to continue at the club and fight for his place under Antonio Conte.
However, Simeone believes that Costa, 27, is interested in returning to his old club, where he knows he would compete for titles while playing an important role in the team.
The scales could tip in Atleti's favour if Chelsea, as has been rumoured, make a move to bring Romelu Lukaku back, who they sold to Everton in 2014.
