Has Romelu Lukaku got the winning mentality that Diego Costa has? – Carlton Cole says Chelsea should keep striker

Former Chelsea and West Ham striker Carlton Cole believes the Blues should keep hold of Diego Costa despite Antonio Conte telling the striker he was no longer wanted at the club.

The Spanish international appeared to be on his way out of the club after the bust-up with his manager but the Blues have found it difficult signing a suitable replacement.

Their number one target, former forward Romelu Lukaku, is on the verge of joining Manchester United in what was a bitter blow to Conte and his plans for next season.

However, Cole - who now plays for Indonesian side Persib Bandung - doubts Lukaku has the same winning mentality that Costa has, underlying the Spanish striker’s importance to his current club.

“They need to keep hold of Diego Costa. I think he brings something to the team - he brings that aggression up front that no defender likes playing against,” the ex-England international told talkSPORT 2.

“Lukaku is a great player and everything but has he got that winning mentality that Diego has got? I don’t know.

“I suppose he can score goals if he’s in the right team and, if you play to his strengths he will score goals, but with Diego you can put him in any situation and he will try 100 per cent - because he’s got that tenacity about him.

“That’s the way I look at it and they will miss Diego if he goes.”

While it could be safely assumed Diego Costa doesn’t feel wanted at Chelsea, Cole believes the situation could motivate the forward.

“I think it should do because as a footballer you are a proud person especially as a striker,” Cole explained.

“If you think you have done well enough, and they are still having a go at you and saying we will let you go now, that should spur you on to do even better and be the man you are supposed to be.

“But I think it could be a plus for Chelsea if he stays.”