Diego Costa hands in transfer request

Chelsea striker Diego Costa has handed in a transfer request amid speculated interest from Atletico Madrid. The Spaniard had a mixed season in the Premier League last term, and this has brought doubts over his future at Stamford Bridge.

According to Spanish source AS, Costa wants his way out of the Blues with former side Atleti hot on the trail of his signature.

Blues owner Roman Abramovich is for now reluctant to offload the marksman, and it could come to a series of discussions to decide where the player's commitment would lie next season.

Diego Simeone's side were earlier speculated to have tabled a £40m offer for the Spain international.

Costa netted 16 goals in 41 games for the West London giants last term.