Diego Costa has threatened to refuse to show up for pre-season training on Monday if Chelsea continue to stonewall his move away this summer, according to reports in Spain.
The Chelsea striker was told via text that he was no longer in Antonio Conte’s plans and has been searching for a new club ever since.
Costa is believed to be eager to re-join Atletico Madrid despite the club being hit with a transfer ban.
Atletico can sign players, but new additions will not be able to play until January.
Spanish outlet AS claim Costa remains desperate to join Atletico and has moved to force the transfer back to Spain.
Costa is still on holiday in Brazil despite the fact he is expected at pre-season training on Monday.
Conte’s harsh text has soured his relationship with Costa considerably and the attacker does not want to see the Chelsea manager again.
Costa has therefore decided not to return to London and wants his move to Atletico completed.
Ateltico have already agreed personal terms with Costa, but Chelsea have so far knocked back their offers.
A bid of £26.5million was rejected by Chelsea as the Blues look for a much higher figure for one of the Premier League’s top goalscorers.
Costa returned to his best last season and helped fire Chelsea to the Premier League title.
But, Conte has planned for a future without the influential striker after a reported bust-up earlier this year.
Costa has already admitted he was close to leaving Stamford Bridge last summer, but now seems even more determined to take on a fresh challege elsewhere.
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