Chelsea Transfer News: Diego Costa Reveals He Wanted Atletico Madrid Move

Chelsea star Diego Costa has revealed he wanted to return to former club Atletico Madrid during the summer transfer window, but he's happy with the Blues now that the move won't go through. 

Speaking to Movistar (h/t Eurosport's Tom Adams), the Spain international confirmed Atletico manager Diego Simeone worked on a reunion, but the move fell through because of some key details. Costa was honest about his desires:

"

Everybody knows there was a possibility of going back to Atletico but it didn’t happen because of a few details.

I thank the fans and Cholo (Simeone) for his faith. Now I’m at Chelsea, I’m happy there and I’ve started the season with them.

I hope Atletico do well this season like last year and win titles. I wanted to go back, I won’t lie about it.

"

Costa struggled mightily during the 2015-16 campaign, and speculation regarding a return to LaLiga has been constant for some time now. 

He only fanned the flames by complaining about his treatment in England during a recent interview with ESPN Brazil (h/t Sport Witness):

But the 27-year-old has started the 2016-17 season well, scoring twice in the Premier League so far and playing a key role in Chelsea's perfect start to the campaign. New manager Antonio Conte is the type of boss who appreciates a healthy work ethic and plenty of effort, things that make Costa stand out on the pitch.

He's also drawn praise from a number of pundits and analysts, including Bleacher Report's Garry Hayes:

"

Forget this caricature that’s been created; why aren’t we celebrating Costa the footballer? It’s about time we changed the focus, especially in the moments when Costa is doing what he’s supposed to by winning Chelsea matches and points.

Take the Spanish international striker out of Conte’s side, and we would be looking at Chelsea being not much better off than Arsenal and Leicester City right now. Two wins would have been draws; only because of Costa, Chelsea are five points to the good on two of the sides we are expecting to challenge them for a top-four spot this season. That’s a significant early-season gain.

"

Atletico have started the 2016-17 season in poor form, with two draws in their first two LaLiga matches, but they're unlikely to make any more signings before the end of the transfer window. A move for Costa seems impossible at this point, as Chelsea have made it clear they expect him to play a big role alongside summer arrival Michy Batshuayi.

Perhaps the Brazilian-born forward is opening the door to a future move with these latest comments, but for now, Blues fans shouldn't worry too much.