Former Chelsea striker Costa has made his long-awaited return to football after verbally agreeing a one year deal with Atletico Mineiro.
The deal would signal Costa’s return to football for the first time since he abruptly left Atletico Madrid last December.
Atletico Mineiro Head Coach, Cuca was a huge proponent of the deal getting done. He was in favour of the signing from the start of negotiations and help ensure it got to the finish line, though director Rodrigo Caetano was the one responsible for negotiating with the athlete behind the scenes.
The Spaniard striker is seen as a reinforcement for the current leader of Brazil’s top-flight, and he will be available to the team as soon as he has registered with the club.
The Spanish striker has been without a club since leaving Athletico Madrid last year.
It came as a shock to many, with Diego still having six months remaining on his contract.
But the 32-year-old cited ‘personal reasons for getting a termination with the Spaniards.
Following the termination of his contract, the Spain international was allowed to join any side as a free agent and was linked with several clubs, including Arsenal and Juventus.
Benfica tabled an offer of a two-year deal worth £5 million earlier this year but an agreement was never reached.