Peter Luccin has handed Atletico Madrid a huge boost by assuring them he wants to play out his career at the Vicente Calderon.

Having indicated this week that he was ready to reject overtures of a new contract and move abroad, the Frenchman contacted Atletico directors yesterday to assure them that his intention was to retire at the club, says El Mundo Deportivo.

Atletico will now open talks over a new contract with their No5, who has less than 12 months to run on his existing deal.

Meanwhile, new Brazilian striker Diego Costa has left Atletico to join Segunda Liga Cadiz on a season-long loan.