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Flamengo in talks with Atletico's Costa as Gabigol replacement

Flamengo have opened discussions with Atletico Madrid forward Diego Costa after identifying him as their first-choice replacement for Gabriel Barbosa, Goal understands.

Barbosa, known as Gabigol, scored 31 goals in 38 games for the Brazilian club as they won a league and Copa Libertadores double, including two goals in the Libertadores final.

On loan from Inter, Flamengo are hoping to be able to sign Gabigol on a permanent deal, but former Chelsea man Costa is their preferred back-up if a deal cannot be struck.

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Goal has learned that negotiations have already begun, using 34-year-old left-back Filipe Luis – a team-mate of Costa’s at both Chelsea and Atletico – as an intermediary.