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Emotional Diego Costa says goodbye to Atletico Mineiro after ex-Chelsea star is linked with shock Arsenal free transfer
DIEGO COSTA bid farewell to Atletico Mineiro as speculation mounts that he could be on his way to Arsenal.
The striker, 33, is available on a free transfer after terminating his contract with the Brazilian side.
AFPDiego Costa has posted an emotional goodbye to Atletico Mineiro[/caption]
GettyThe striker has been linked with a shock free transfer to Arsenal[/caption]
The Spanish international striker has held informal talks with several clubs – including the Gunners.
After his departure was confirmed, Costa wrote on Instagram: “Today, officially, I say goodbye to Atletico.
“I would like to thank all Massa Atleticana for all the support and affection I received from the first to the last day. Thank you so much for being part of my childhood dream of playing in Brazilian football and winning titles.
“I would also like to express my gratitude to the entire technical staff, medical department, employees and especially to my teammates who helped me daily, always doing everything to make me feel comfortable.
“The feeling that remains is gratitude to all of you Athleticans. Thank you and I wish you all the success in the world!!!”
LaLiga side Cadiz, Brazilian clubs Corinthians and Sao Paolo are also believed to be interested in Costa along with Arsenal.
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Costa only joined Atletico Mineiro last summer but could be ready for a return to Europe.
Arsenal are in need of a striker after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was frozen out of the first-team before he left for the Africa Cup of Nations.
There is also speculation linking Eddie Nketiah with a transfer exit this month.
Bayer Leverkusen and Crystal Palace are reportedly interested in the young striker whose contract expires in the summer.
Alexandre Lacazette also has just six months remaining on his current deal.
Arsenal have made Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic their top transfer priority and are willing to spend £58million on the Serbian.
Mikel Arteta is also desperate to bring in a midfielder with a move for Juventus’ Arthur Melo in the works.
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