Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira has slammed talk of a deal being close for Diego Costa.

A free agent, the former Chelsea and Atletico Madrid striker, was linked with Palmeiras last week.

But Ferreira snapped: "I have noted that players, as soon as they are available in Europe, are rumoured to be going to Palmeiras. I can guarantee that there is no way to negotiate with this player. Not at all.

"I look at attackers as I look at goalkeepers. It's a very specific position and I have three strikers as I have three goalkeepers.

"I have noted that Palmeiras is used as propaganda. It is agents and players who mention Palmeiras to entice others. When you throw the fishing rod into the water, you usually catch some fish, but our plan for next season has been in place for a long time, and the list has been handed over to the club's directors."