Atlético Madrid striker Diego Costa may turn down any approach from Arsenal, according to Spanish newspaper Marca. The 24-year-old Brazilian international has enjoyed a good season with the Vicente Calderon side, scoring eight times and setting up seven goals in 28 La Liga appearances.

Diego Costa
Reuters

Costa may have played second fiddle to Colombian international Radamel Falcao this season but has produced consistent performances over the past few seasons. And that has attracted attention from Arsene Wenger, according to ESPN. Interest in the Brazilian was also reported by the Express, with the belief being the Gunners had given up on long-term target Adrian Lopez, who is Costa's team mate.

The striker's contract expires in 2014 but any hope of a cut-price deal has reportedly been scuttled, with Atlético placing a €25m valuation on their player's head. In addition, Costa stressed on his commitment to the Spanish club, after the 3-1 weekend league win over Celta Vigo.

The South American also said the chance to play in the Champions League played a large part in his decision; Atlético have qualified for next season's tournament, while Arsenal have still to confirm their participation. However, he was quick to add that he had not closed the door on a future exit.

"I wish to listen to music of the Champions in the field ... If I stay, in football you never you know," he told Radio Marca after the win against Vigo. He was earlier quoted as saying: "There are great players here and I want to fight to be in the first XI. I hope to keep growing here. At Atleti."

Incidentally, Costa is represented by Portuguese super agent Jorge Mendes, who counts Cristiano Ronaldo and José Mourinho among his clients.

If, as is now likely, Costa remains in Spain, he may well be joined by Premier League striker Luis Suarez. The Uruguayan international has been linked with a surprise £40m move to the Calderon in the summer, following a 10-match ban for biting Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic.

Suarez's arrival, however, is expected to be offset by the departure of Falcao. The prolific Colombian has been linked with a move to Chelsea and, more surprisingly, French second division club AS Monaco, according to the Express.