Rumour: Chelsea and Arsenal in the market for Diego Costa

Spanish newspaper El Confidencial are reporting that Atletico Madrid are resigned to losing striker Diego Costa, with Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea all interested in the prolific forward. Costa has scored 19 goals in 17 La Liga appearances this season since stepping up to replace the now-departed Falcao as the capital clubs main striker.

Costa is the top scorer in La Liga, two goals ahead of Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo. The 25-year-old has scored a goal every 75 minutes this season and has already surpassed the 10 goals that he managed throughout the entirety of last season.

However, El Confidencial report that Atletico are resigned to losing the striker. Costa has a release clause in his contract that is likely to be met by potential Premier League suitors. Talksport allege that Liverpool met the release clause in the summer but were rebuffed by the player. However it is thought that the Spain international may now be open to a move should reported interest become concrete.

If Costa were to leave, then the Premier League looks a likely destination. Arsenal are in the market for a forward to provide competition for Olivier Giroud, Chelsea’s forward woes are well documented and doubts continue over the long term future of Robin Van Persie at Manchester United.