Atletico Madrid forward Diego Costa ends contract early

 

Atletico Madrid and Diego Costa are mutually agreed to terminate the former Chelsea striker’s contract in making the striker a free agent.

Diego Costa has scored just two goals this season and has only made three substitute appearances since the middle of October.

The 32-year-old’s deal was to expire next summer, but after falling out of favor at the Spanish club, a return to the Premier League looks possible with his contract termination.

According to a statement by the club, the striker demanded to leave for personal reasons.

“The striker asked to leave the club for personal reasons a few days ago and on Tuesday signed the termination of his contract, The club thanks Diego Costa for his dedication during these years and wishes him well in the next stage of his professional career.” Atletico said.

Atletico leads the La Liga on goal difference with two games in hand, but Luis Suarez and Joao Felix have been the preferred options upfront for Diego Simeone’s side this season.

Costa moved to Atletico Madrid in 2017 after his time at Premier League side Chelsea ended controversially after the then Blues manager Antonio Conte texted him that he was not in his plans for the next season.

Arsenal and Wolves have been linked with moves for Costa, who won two Premier League titles during his three-season stint with Chelsea.

After scoring 59 goals in 120 games for Chelsea and two Premier League titles, he could return to England with reports linking him to Arsenal and Wolves.

Meanwhile, Barcelona drew 1-1 with Eibar in their La Liga game played on Tuesday evening. Barca was without Messi, who was rested due to injury.

Martin Braithwaite missed an 8th-minute penalty and had a 25th-minute goal disallowed for offside by the VAR.

Ousmane Dembele gave Barcelona the equalizer in the 67 minutes after Kike had given the visitors the lead. The result leaves Ronald Koeman in 6th.

 

Written by: Daniel Ademiju Idowu