Diego Costa misses Chelsea pre-season as he looks to leave

Chelsea striker Diego Costa will miss the start of pre-season training, Press Association Sport understands.

The Spain international has been linked with moves to China and former club Atletico Madrid over the summer.

Manager Antonio Conte has reportedly told the Brazilian-born forward that he does not feature in his plans at Stamford Bridge for the upcoming season.

The Blues have agreed to Costa's absence, with the striker believed to be in his native Brazil.

It is unclear exactly when the Spain international will return to training with the Premier League champions, who are due to travel to China and Singapore next week for their summer tour.

Antonio Conte and Costa haven't always got along. Credit: PA