Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has made it clear to his board that Diego Costa has to be brought back in January.

In two spells with Atletico Costa scored 43 goals in 94 La Liga matches before joining Chelsea in 2014.

The Spanish club still expect Costa to choose them over a switch to AC Milan.

Milan are growing in confidence that a deal can be reached to sign the Spain international permanently as Atleti are struggling to reach an agreement with the Blues.

Atletico Madrid have so far offered just £26million for the man they sold to Chelsea for £6million more than that two years ago.

The Blues value Costa at around £50million and will be pleased that Atletico have a rival for his signature. Not only should it ensure they receive a sum closer to their asking price, but it could help speed up his departure.

The forward has been banned from the club's training ground and is currently training on his own back in Brazil.