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Diego Costa

LONDON. – Diego Costa is ready to dig his heels in and stay at English soccer champions Chelsea until he seals his dream move back to Atletico Madrid.

Starsport understands the Spain striker’s ready to go head-to-head with boss Antonio Conte by refusing to move to anyone but his old club.

Costa has told Atletico Madrid he wants to sign for them again, according to Sky sources. The Chelsea striker revealed on June 8 that he had received a message from manager Conte telling him he was not in his plans at Stamford Bridge for next season.

If Costa moved back to Atletico he would not be able to play until January because FIFA has banned them from registering players during this transfer window.

Costa (28) scored 20 goals in 35 league appearances in their title-winning campaign last season, The London club signed Costa from Atletico three years ago for £32m when Jose Mourinho was manager.

Following Spain’s 2-2 draw with Colombia at the beginning of the month, Costa said: “I’m a Chelsea player, but they do not want me there. Antonio Conte has told me by message that I do not follow at Chelsea and that’s it. Conte said he did not count on me for next season.’’ – The Daily Star-Sky Sports.