The Chelsea forward has been told he is surplus to requirements by boss Antonio Conte.

He was in self-imposed exile in Brazil over the summer as he looked to force a move to Atletico Madrid.

The Spain international never got his wish and remains at Chelsea.

Atleti seem keen to re-sign their former striker but are under a transfer embargo until January 1 2018.

And the Turkish side tried to bring him in until the New Year.

Kocaman said: The transfer of Diego Costa was very close.

"But then the result was negative."

Costa looks set to be out of action until the next transfer window opens.

He has not been included in the Blues' Champions League squad and appears unlikely to feature in domestic action.

Conte has made his stance perfectly clear and it seems like Costa will just have to bide his time.