Chelsea "treated me like a criminal", says Costa

Diego Costa says he is waiting for Chelsea "to set me free" and allow him to sign for Atletico Madrid.

The Brazil-born Spain international joined the Blues from Atletico Madrid in 2014 and has won two Premier League titles and the League Cups during his three seasons at Stamford Bridge.

But the 28-year-old is out of favour at Chelsea following a bust-up with manager Antonio Conte, and has not returned to training following an extended post-season break.

Conte reportedly sent Costa a text message in June telling him he had no future at the club.

"In January, things happened with the coach," said Costa. 

"I was on the brink of renewing my contract and they put the brakes on it. I suspect the manager was behind it. He asked for that to happen.

"I am waiting for Chelsea to set me free. I didn't want to leave. I was happy. When the manager does not want you, you have to go.

"They gave me a week extra off but since then it's fines all the way. They want me training with the reserves. I am not going to do that.

"I am not a criminal and I am not in the wrong here. So, if they need to fine me, let them fine me."

Costa is prepared to miss out on a year of his career rather than move to any club but Atletico, who are under a transfer embargo until January.

"My desire is to go to Atletico," he continued.

"I have rejected other offers. They want to sell me to China or other teams. If I'm off, I'm going to the club I want to go to, not the club that's paying the most.

"I am open to being a year in Brazil without playing, even if Chelsea fine me for a year and don't pay me. I'll come back stronger. If I was in the wrong, I'd go back now and do as they say."

Photo Getty Images/ Darren Walsh

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