Pedro has admitted that the departure of Diego Costa would be a “very big loss” for Chelsea if the Spanish striker departs Stamford Bridge this summer.
Costa is facing an uncertain summer at the champions after manager Antonio Conte informed his top scorer that he would not be part of his plans for next season.
The 28-year-old has made clear his first-choice escape route would be to Atletico Madrid but they would be unable to register him until January as they are serving a transfer ban. The prospect of a move to the Chinese Super League has also receded after the country’s government increased the penalties for overspending on foreign talent.
Regardless of where he goes Pedro is convinced his fellow Spain international would be a major loss to Chelsea if he moves on this summer.
“We will see what happens to Diego but we don't know,” Pedro told Cadena Ser. “He is obviously a very important player in attack for us. He has scored the majority of the goals for us this season.
“He is a player feared by defenders because he is fast. He scores with ease.
“Diego gives you an added strength and more so in this league, because he is strong, he scores and he has good physical condition.
The players on Chelsea’s transfer shortlist
“If eventually it is confirmed that he will not continue with us, it will be a very big loss for us. It's early days but I hope as a player and friend that he can stay with us.”
Everton striker Romelu Lukaku appears the preferred replacement for Costa with the Blues hopeful of finalising a deal that will smash their transfer record.
