Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has dismissed reports that Diego Costa has asked to leave Stamford Bridge.
Spanish media reports on Monday claimed Costa had handed in a transfer request and made it clear to Chelsea that he wanted to return to his former club Atletico Madrid.
Atletico president Enrique Cerezo subsequently suggested that a deal to re-sign him from the Blues was “close”, only to later deny he had made the comments.
Conte said: “Diego Costa is our player. He’s a fantastic player with fundamental importance. He’s very happy and is working hard.”
Conte was speaking ahead of Wednesday’s pre-season friendly against RZ Pellets in Austria.
“I’m very happy with our work. I have found that the players have the right attitude and they are great workers,” the Italian added.
This post was last modified on 20/07/2016