Costa is still in his native Brazil, having been told he has no future at Stamford Bridge. He has been widely linked with a move back to Atletico, with whom he won La Liga in 2014 before joining Chelsea.
Atletico 22/1 to win La Liga
Atletico’s pursuit is muddied by the fact they cannot field new signings until January 1, 2018, due to a FIFA transfer embargo, meaning Costa will have to play the first half of the season elsewhere before switching to the capital.
Nevertheless, Cerezo remains unbowed and is still hopeful a deal can be struck.
He told Cadena Ser: “He has a contract with another club, it’s a complicated matter.
“We are taking things calmly. But as long as Chelsea do not agree to his transfer, Costa will be a Chelsea player.”
Asked if he was pessimistic or optimistic on agreeing a deal, he added: “I am always optimistic.”
Costa has been photographed looking short of fitness in recent weeks but Cerezo does not think that’s a problem.
He said: “On holiday it is normal to get a little fat, but I understand Costa is a professional.”
