Jorge Mendes, the super-agent who represents Costa, is understood to have not been shy in sounding out top European clubs for his client.

Atletico have made no secret that they want to re-sign the 27-year-old and there are some behind the scenes at Chelsea who think Costa has made up his mind to leave.Pato and Falcao are to be shown the exit at Stamford Bridge when their loan deals expire, with Chelsea not planning to keep either.