Rumors abound that Chelsea is ready to step up their £85 million bid for Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann by adding striker Diego Costa to the offer.
Caught Offside reported that the Blues are "readying a record bid" for the 25-year-old France international and is "set to rival Manchester United" for his services when the transfer window re-opens in January. United is rumored to be pursuing Griezmann in the winter as the club prepares for the retirement of legendary team captain Wayne Rooney.
However, Chelsea is intending to give the Red Devils a run for their money as the team is also said to be targeting last season's 22-goal La Liga sensation.
The report noted that the Blues are "prepared to use Diego Costa as part of the offer to bring the France international to Stamford Bridge" as Los Colchoneros would only be willing to let go of their star striker if his £85 million release clause is met.
This means that Chelsea will have to "break their current club transfer record" presently held by former striker Fernando Torres when the club acquired him from Liverpool for £50 million in January 2011. Curiously, Torres is now playing for Atletico Madrid.
Rumors have emerged since the beginning of the summer that Costa is eyeing a homecoming to Atleti this season, but Chelsea boss Antonio Conte would not allow him as he is seen as an asset in the Blues' frontline this season.
If the deal for Griezmann pushes through and Costa indeed becomes part of the package, then the Spanish striker will get what he desired at the end of his terrible campaign last season.
Costa is having an impressive season at the Stamford Bridge this year, though, as Conte put his faith in him and let him lead the Blues' attacks once again. It is not yet known whether Costa would like to return to Spain again or just stay with Conte.
Meanwhile, ESPN indicated that Griezmann will only consider a change of club if current Atleti head coach Diego Simeone will leave the squad.
There were speculations that Simeone could replace Arsene Wenger as Arsenal manager at the end of the season when the 66-year-old boss' contract at the Emirates stadium expires.