Atletico Madrid are set to make their opening bid to re-sign Diego Costa in a move that could save the striker from an awkward reunion with Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte.

Sources in Spain on Wednesday night claimed Costa was “hours” from returning to Atletico, despite the fact the La Liga club must still agree a fee with Chelsea.

Should Atletico meet Chelsea’s asking price, which is thought to be around £40 million, then a transfer is expected to go through quickly. There have, however, been suggestions the Spaniards hope to re-sign Costa for £22m plus add-ons which would spark lengthy negotiations.

A quick deal would certainly appeal to Conte, who is due to return to work at Chelsea on Sunday with his squad returning for pre-season training 24 hours later.