Arsenal are keeping tabs on Diego Costa's future with his Atletico Madrid days seemingly numbered according to reports.
The Gunners could make a January move after the striker asked the Spanish club to offload him in the New Year.
Atletico are prepared to terminate his contract six months early but do not want to sell to a rival which makes Arsenal an ideal destination, claims AS Diario.
Mikel Arteta's side have struggled for goals this season which has contributed to their poor form.
Costa has proven himself in the Premier League with Chelsea, winning two titles in the space of three years.
The Spaniard is looking to join another top European side as he believes he can still cut it at the top level.
His grit and determination is something Arsenal have lacked for years, but they are looking to add that under Arteta.
Costa's former team-mate Thomas Partey was signed in the summer as impressed when fit.
The Gunners' interest in the 32-year-old dates back to Arsene Wenger's reign.
“I like Costa as a player,” Wenger once said. “I like the qualities of the player. All the rest around is not needed. He’s a very strong player."
He came to English shores in 2014 when Jose Mourinho signed him.
Costa went on to score 59 times in 120 outings for the Blues under two different managers.
Wenger admits he would've pushed harder for his signature had he known Costa was prepared to leave the Spanish capital.
“I never thought he would leave Atlético Madrid at the time, I was surprised,” he added.
“Would I have made a harder play for him had I known? Yes. I like him, as a quality striker.”
Costa rejoined Atletico from Chelsea in 2017 but has been unable to hit the heights of his first spell and has grown frustrated with his lack of minutes.
