Antonio Conte’s decision to dump Diego Costa by a text message has reportedly stunned the Chelsea board.
The Spain international played a pivotal role in the recently-concluded season, scoring 22 goals to fire Chelsea to their second Premier League title in three years. However, Costa has not enjoyed a cordial relationship with Conte ever since the latter took charge at the Stamford Bridge last summer. Their fractious relationship first came to the fore when the former Juventus manager dropped the hot-headed striker after he had a training- ground row with a club fitness coach in January. And now Conte has made it clear that the former Atletico Madrid striker no longer features in his plans.
Earlier this week, Costa revealed receiving a text message from Conte where the Italian had told him he did not want the striker in the upcoming season.
“The other day, Conte sent me a message saying he does not count on me for next season,” Costa told the Spanish media.
“So I’ll have to find a way out. If the manager gets in contact to tell you that you are not wanted then you have to leave,” he added.
Reports are suggesting that Conte has his eyes set on Everton striker Romelu Lukaku and wants to finance the move by selling Costa. However, the Italian tactician’s decision to dump Costa through a text has stunned the club officials as they fear they would lost millions due to the whole incident.
With Costa making it clear that Conte is keen to off-load him before the new season, the potential suitors will now have the upper hand in any negotiations, making it difficult for Chelsea to get a good amount.
Not only that, Chelsea is also going to face some issues while buying a new striker as the other clubs will be demanding more money as it has become clear that the Blues desperately need a striker. And in such a scenario, Everton is likely to increase Lukaku’s price which can go as high as £100million.
Costa, meanwhile, still has two years left on his contract. And since the Spaniard has not asked for a transfer, he could still collect a whopping loyalty payment from the Premier League champions when he leaves the Bridge.