Friday, 6th June, 2014
Chelsea want to complete the signing of Diego Costa from Atletico Madrid before the World Cup kicks off on Thursday, stressing the player has told the Spanish side to accept the bid on the table.
The Blues have met the €38m buy-out clause in Costa's contract at the Vicente Calderon and the player has passed a medical. However, there are several remaining items to be ironed out before the deal can be officially signed off, not least official confirmation of the clause having been activated.
And Chelsea do not want to wait until after the World Cup, a club source being quoted as saying by the BBC: "Chelsea look forward to entering into formal transfer documentation with Atletico Madrid as soon as possible so that the player can concentrate on the World Cup.
"Chelsea have made an offer to Atletico Madrid in compliance with the buy-out terms in Diego Costa's contract.
relatedNewsStory
"We have been advised that the player has invoked a buy-out clause and directed the club to accept Chelsea's offer."
Costa is currently with Vicente del Bosque's Spain squad preparing for the World Cup, which begins on Thursday evening.
Spain open their World Cup campaign next Friday, when they lock horns with 2010 World Cup runners-up Holland.
Don't bet on football until you've visited Inside Bet! Interesting markets, top tips, betting facts – get all the info before you bet.
