Diego Costa part of Atletico Madrid's plans for next season

Diego Costa part of Atletico Madrid's plans for next season

Published Apr. 30, 2014 10:47 a.m. ET

Atletico Madrid are planning for next season with Diego Costa and hope they can fend off mounting interest in his services.

Reports of a big-money switch for the prolific striker this summer refuse to go away, with a return of 27 goals in 32 appearances sparking inevitable interest.

Chelsea are reported to be leading the chase, with Jose Mourinho having openly admitted that he is in the market for added firepower.

ADVERTISEMENT

A sizeable bid would test Atletico's resolve, with the likes of Fernando Torres, Diego Forlan, Sergio Aguero and Radamel Falcao all offloaded in the recent past in an effort to balance the books.

La Liga leaders are, however, optimistic that their efforts to tie key men down on long-term contracts will pay dividends as they look to come through the next transfer window in a stronger position than they start it.

Sporting director Jose Luis Caminero told Movistar: "We have renewed almost everyone, including Diego Costa (on a deal through to 2018).

"So our mind is set on keeping that block (of players) and slowly bringing some more players in that can go with this project.

"So we want all our great players, Diego Costa included, to continue here. And next season, at the moment, is planned with him."

Caminero has also been discussing the prospect of Thibaut Courtois returning to Vicente Calderon in 2014/15, possibly on a permanent basis, with the issue of the on-loan goalkeeper's future set to be discussed with Chelsea at the end of the season.

He added: "Courtois, we have a very good relationship with Chelsea and will reach an agreement that will be good for Chelsea, for the boy and for Atletico Madrid."

share