Former Marseille striker Toifilou Maoulida is sorry they missed out on signing Diego Costa.

The former Chelsea striker formally joined Atletico Madrid this week.

Maoulida said, "There have been many names. We heard about Giroud, Bacca ... a lot of names came out. Even that of Diego Costa is out. Without lying to you, me, Diego Costa, it made me dream. And when I heard Diego Costa at OM ... I love this player!

"He's the image of Marseille: determination, efficiency, grit ... After I think it may be impossible, because it involves world-class players, who may have an untouchable level of salary.

"But we waited for the big name that was to be announced."