Chelsea's transfer stand-off with Diego Costa has reached a legal stalemate.

The London Evening Standard says the Spain striker claimed he was informed by coach Antonio Conte via text message in June that he was not a part of the club's plans anymore.

However, Conte claims that Costa and his agent Jorge Mendes were told in January that the forward would be sold in the summer.

The Spain striker, who wants a transfer back to Atletico Madrid, has instructed his lawyer Ricardo Cardoso to get involved.

Now that the matter has become a legal issue, Conte did not answer questions about Costa in his pre-match press conference ahead of the Burnley game. He and the club will continue to maintain their silence on the issue until it is resolved.

Chelsea want £50m for Costa but Atletico, who are banned by Fifa from registering any new players until January, have offered just £26m so far.

AC Milan did hold talks with Mendes earlier this month over a transfer, but made it clear they were only interested in a permanent deal, rather than a short term loan.