Costa’s Atletico return in doubt as they chase Dortmund ace

Diego Costa’s return to Atletico Madrid has been hindered by reports that the La Liga side are instead focusing their efforts on signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, reports L’Equipe via the Daily Star. 

Costa has been told by Chelsea manager Antonio Conte that he has no future at Stamford Bridge, with his three-year spell in London set to come to an end this summer. 

The Spain international was linked with a transfer to China back in January, though any move failed to materialise, but he now has his heart set on a return to Madrid, even if that means he couldn’t play for Atletico until the turn of the year due to their transfer ban. 

However, Diego Simeone’s side appear to have switched their attention to Borussia Dortmund star Aubameyang after missing out on Alexandre Lacazette. 

The Gabon international scored more goals (31) than any other player in the Bundesliga last season, yet looks set to follow in the footsteps of Thomas Tuchel and leave Dortmund this summer. 

Interest in his signature is high, with Real Madrid, PSG and Liverpool all keen on Aubameyang, though Simeone will hope to lure him to Atletico, thus ending any chance of Costa returning to the Spanish capital.