Costa, who won La Liga under Diego Simeone in 2013-14, was a target for Atleti before they brought in Kevin Gameiro from Sevilla.

The Spain international has started the new season in excellent form with two goals in three games for Chelsea.

Premier League How Battle of the Bridge descended into chaos and crowned Leicester champions 02/05/2020 AT 19:59

But in an interview with TV station Movistar, Costa has said his preference was to return to Spain.

“Everybody knows there was a possibility of going back to Atlético but it didn’t happen because of a few details,” he said.

“I thank the fans and Cholo (Simeone) for his faith. Now I’m at Chelsea, I’m happy there and I’ve started the season with them.

“ I hope Atlético do well this season like last year and win titles. I wanted to go back, I won’t lie about it.”

Premier League Leicester City: The greatest underdog story of all 02/05/2020 AT 07:10