Atletico Madrid: Diego Costa ends contract early

Costa has scored two goals this season

Spain striker Diego Costa is a free agent after Atletico Madrid agreed to end his contract early, paving the way for a possible Premier League return.

The 32-year-old, whose deal was due to expire next summer, fell out of favour at the Spanish club.

He has made only three appearances, all as a substitute, since mid-October.

"The striker asked to leave the club for personal reasons a few days ago and on Tuesday signed the termination of his contract," said Atletico.

"The club thanks Diego Costa for his dedication during these years and wishes him well in the next stage of his professional career."

Luis Suarez and Joao Felix have been preferred to Costa up front this season.

Arsenal and Wolves have been linked with moves for Costa, who won two Premier League titles during his three-season stint with Chelsea.

Costa scored 59 goals in 120 games for Chelsea, but his spell ended in acrimony after then manager Antonio Conte told him via text message that he was not part of his plans for the following season.

Costa refused to return to Chelsea from his home in Brazil after being told to train with the reserves.

In September 2017 he was sold to Atletico, the club where he made his name as La Liga's top scorer in their 2013-14 title win.

Atletico are top of La Liga, ahead of Real Madrid on goal difference with two games in hand.

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