Costa must return to Stamford Bridge

Diego Costa must renege on his promise to remain in Brazil and instead return to Chelsea to have any hope of securing his desired move to Atletico Madrid.

Costa has criticised Chelsea’s treatment of him this summer, saying he is “not a criminal” and insisting he is prepared to remain in exile for a year. But it is understood that Chelsea want Costa, a player with two years left on his contract, to return to the club.

The Blues also expect the Brazilborn Spain striker to prove his fitness and make himself available for selection.

After being granted an additional week of leave and missing the pre-season tour to Asia, Costa is still to return to London around two weeks after his anticipated arrival.

Costa, speaking at his family home in Lagarto, Brazil, said he has not reported for training as he does not want to train with the Blues’ reserves, and is happy staying in Brazil and paying club fines until his future is resolved.

He told the Daily Mail: “They gave me a week extra off but since then it’s fines all the way. They want me training with the reserves. I am not going to do that.

“I am not a criminal and I am not in the wrong here. So, if they need to fine me, let them fine me.”

Costa joined Chelsea from Atletico in July 2014 and has scored 59 goals – 52 in the Premier League – in 120 appearances.

The 28-year-old claims he was told he was not wanted by head coach Antonio Conte by text message in the summer.

The Blues declined to respond to Costa’s comments and Conte has recently described the situation as belonging in “the past”.

In Costa’s absence, the Blues lost 3-2 to Burnley on Saturday, the full opening day of the Premier League season.

Diego Costa: scored 59 goals in 120 Chelsea appearances.