Simeone photo did for Diego
forced Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich to prove his backing for the title-winning coach – as Conte had not run it by him beforehand.
Costa revealed on Monday night he had been told to find another club – just weeks after winning the title. His agent Jorge Mendes has met AC Milan directors Marco Fassone and Massimiliano Mirabelli and another meeting is scheduled to try and thrash out a deal.
The revelation has caused a headache for Chelsea as the club had been completely unaware of Conte’s now infamous text or of Costa’s plan to go public.
Millions could be wiped off Costa’s transfer value with the club’s negotiating position possibly compromised. The text came about after Conte had messaged his squad wishing them a good summer and reminding them to stay in shape.
Costa is understood to have fired off a cheeky reply, prompting the text from Conte which stunned the striker. The Spain hitman reacted by approaching the club but was told to leave the situation in the hands of the board.
But Costa stunned Chelsea by telling all to the Spanish media. The 28-year-old had tried in vain for a reunion with Simeone at Atletico last summer.