Costa warned, Chelsea Could Let Him Rot

Chelsea have the “financial power” to stop Diego Costa leaving and make him see out his contract, says former Blues coach Steve Clarke.

The Spain international was expected to be on the move this summer after being informed that he no longer figures in Antonio Conte’s plans.

He is, however, still on the books at Stamford Bridge, with a transfer ban imposed on Atletico Madrid – his preferred destination – further complicating matters.

Costa has not returned to training after the summer break, though, and Clarke feels stubbornness on Chelsea’s part could see them block a move completely and leave the 28-year-old to rot.

He told talkSPORT: “At the moment Costa is making it difficult for himself. He hasn’t gone back to the club, he’s not training, he’s not earning his money.

“I think Chelsea have got the financial power to make him see out the rest of his contract."

UCJ, UNILORIN.