Transfer News

Costa passes Chelsea medical

ESPN staff

June 4, 2014

Cesc Fabregas headed to Chelsea?

Diego Costa has passed a medical at Chelsea ahead of a transfer worth a reported £32 million from Atletico Madrid.

Chelsea paid the €40m buy-out clause in Costa's contract, the BBC and the Guardian reported on Wednesday. A source later confirmed to ESPN that the striker has successfully completed his medical.

Costa's agent, Jorge Mendes, also represents Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho and a deal is expected to be sealed in the near future although, according to Spanish newspaper Marca, official news of the transfer will be held until June 30 so that the transfer income can be counted in the next tax year.

Costa, who has been selected in Spain's World Cup squad this summer despite injury concerns, scored 27 goals in La Liga this season as Atletico were crowned domestic champions, but lost out in the Champions League final against Real Madrid.

Mourinho said on several occasions during his first season back in charge of Chelsea that the strikers at his disposal - Samuel Eto'o, Fernando Torres and Demba Ba - did not match his requirements.

Eto'o appears certain to leave following the expiry of his contract but there are now indications that Torres and Ba could remain at Stamford Bridge next season. It is unclear whether Romelu Lukaku, who has enjoyed a successful season on loan at Everton, will be given a chance to press his claims.