Chelsea Transfer News: Atletico Madrid President Confirms Diego Costa Interest

Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has declared he wants Chelsea striker Diego Costa to return to the Vicente Calderon Stadium to replace the outgoing Jackson Martinez. 

The Rojiblancos supremo told Spanish radio station Deportes Cope he desires Costa to leave the Premier League champions and re-sign for Atleti in the summer (h/t Danny Collins of the Sun):

"

Jackson Martinez did not adapt. We will try to bring Diego Costa.

We have a magnificent relationship with the players who leave this club.

He is a magnificent player but he is a Chelsea player. We will do everything possible and let’s see what Chelsea say because it does not depend on us.

"

Clive Mason/Getty Images

Costa has gone from championship winner to Blues misfit in only a matter of months, as Chelsea dramatically fail in the defence of their English league crown. 

Simon Johnson of the London Evening Standard reported the Spain international is ready to leave the club and is refusing to learn English, as he desires a move back to La Liga. 

Though the Brazilian-born attacker has scored eight times in 20 Premier League appearances this season, according to WhoScored.com, his body language is that of a player who is unhappy in his surroundings. 

However, his form has improved since Jose Mourinho was removed as the Chelsea coach, as highlighted by Bleacher Report’s Chelsea correspondent Garry Hayes:

Costa's potential exit will leave a bitter taste in the mouth of many fans at Stamford Bridge, but both player and club could value a new start after a horrendous campaign in 2015-16.

Chelsea need to find a fresh formula to reclaim their status in the Premier League's top four, and if Costa cannot contribute towards that goal, a swift sale would be wise.