Chelsea strike verbal agreement with Atletico Madrid for Diego Costa?

Chelsea have reportedly reached an informal agreement with Atletico Madrid to sign striker Diego Costa in the summer.

The 25-year-old Brazil international has been one of the stars of the season in Spain, scoring 23 goals in 23 games.

His fine form has attracted interest from a host of Europe's top clubs, including Chelsea, who are believed to be in the market for a new forward.

Football agent Francois Gallardo has told Spanish broadcaster La Sexta that the Blues are prepared to meet the £32m release clause in Costa's current contract.

Gallardo also claims that a verbal agreement has been struck that should lead to the player moving to Stamford Bridge ahead of next season.