Antonio Conte: 'Diego Costa is very happy at Chelsea'

Diego Costa celebrates scoring during the Premier League game between Southampton and Chelsea on February 27, 2016
© Getty Images
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte insists that Diego Costa is "very happy" at the club despite speculation suggesting that he wants to return to Atletico Madrid.

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has insisted that striker Diego Costa is "very happy" at the club despite reports suggesting that he wants to leave Stamford Bridge.

The 27-year-old is rumoured to be pining for a return to former club Atletico Madrid, with reports yesterday claiming that he had handed in a transfer request.

However, Conte talked up the Spain international's importance to the team and hinted that he would be going nowhere this summer.

"Diego Costa is our player, he's a fantastic player with fundamental importance. He's very happy and is working hard," he told reporters.

"I'm very happy with our work, I found the players have the right attitude and they are great workers. I'm seeing a great attitude and great behaviour from the players and we must continue that for the whole season."

Costa scored 16 goals for Chelsea last season as they only managed a 10th-place finish in the Premier League.

Diego Costa is unhappy with a missed chance during the Premier League game between Chelsea and Manchester City on April 16, 2016
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