Chelsea News: Diego Costa snubbed Monaco move as Ligue 1 side chased Mbappe replacement

CHELSEA striker Diego Costa was wanted by Monaco this summer but the Ligue 1 giants did not table a bid, reports claim.

Diego Costa poses for photos after receiving a Flamengo shirt

Costa was told back in June that he was surplus to requirements by Chelsea manager Antonio Conte.

The striker has spent the last few months back in Brazil, refusing to return to London and train with the reserves as ordered.

The Brazil international has made no secret of his desire to re-join former club Atletico Madrid, who he left three years ago in order to pursue a new challenge in the Premier League.

Yet French newspaper Le 10 Sport say the 28-year-old Chelsea star was wanted by Leonardo Jardim's Monaco as an Mbappe replacement.

Chelsea News: Diego Costa was interesting Monaco this summer

The 18-year-old was wanted by a host of European giants after a breakthrough season that saw him score 26 goals last term.

And, though Arsenal, Manchester City and Real Madrid all wanted him, he ended up joining Paris Saint-Germain instead.

Le 10 Sport say Monaco wanted Costa as his replacement.

They were aware of his desire to leave England and Chelsea in particular.

Chelsea News Monaco Diego CostaGETTY

Chelsea News: Monaco were keen to rescue Diego Costa from his Stamford Bridge nightmare

Chelsea News Monaco Diego CostaGETTY

Chelsea News: Monaco wanted Diego Costa to replace Kylian Mbappe

But, despite that, Jardim failed to launch an offer.

It is said Costa himself was reluctant to make the move as he had his heart set on Atletico.

Everton were also tipped to sign the Spain international but a transfer failed to materialise.

And, consequently, his Chelsea career remains in limbo. 

Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?