Michy Batshuayi had looked set to depart Chelsea this summer, but that move could be scuppered by Diego Costa’s own exit.
Chelsea’s Diego Costa
Diego Costa looks set to depart Chelsea after revealing that manager Antonio Conte has informed him he does not feature in the Italian’s plans for next season.
The Spain forward scored 20 Premier League goals last term to fire the Blues to a second title in three years.
However, Costa told reporters on Wednesday, after an international friendly against Colombia, that he expects to leave Stamford Bridge – according to Goal – saying: “I’m on the market and so I’m looking for a team – if the coach doesn’t want you, you have to leave.”
Chelsea’s Diego Costa
And, with Dominic Solanke moving to Liverpool and Tammy Abraham set for a loan exit, any move for Costa could impact Michy Batshuayi’s future.
The former Marseille man started just one league game in his first year at Chelsea, despite scoring the decisive goal in the title race, and – according to TeamTalk and ESPN, respectively – Everton and West Ham United have been interested in his signature.
Chelsea’s Michy Batshuayi scores
Everton look set to lose Romelu Lukaku this summer, while West Ham have long sought a consistent forward, but their hopes could be dashed if Chelsea need to keep Batshuayi.
Although the Belgium striker was kept on the fringes by Costa’s form and fitness, Conte could not risk a season with only one forward and would surely have to now sign two front men for Batshuayi to leave.
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
