Diego
Costa and Nemanja Matic have been given permission to miss Chelsea's tour of
the Far East.
Costa has not been present at Cobham this week, having been excused from the
first week of pre-season training amid mounting speculation over his future.
Matic has been back in for pre-season training but has reportedly spent much
of his time at Cobham this week working away from the main group.
Costa revealed in June he had received a text message from Antonio Conte
telling him that he no longer featured in the Chelsea boss' plans despite
netting 20 goals last season as the Blues won the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Matic has been linked with a move to Manchester United and a
reunion with former boss Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford.
Sky sources understand Chelsea are close to finalising the signature of
Monaco midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko, which could pave the way for Matic to
join United. The Serbia international has also reportedly attracted interest
from Italian champions Juventus as well as London rivals Arsenal.
Chelsea depart at the beginning of next week for their tour of the Far East.
The Blues travel to China and Singapore where they will play Arsenal, Bayern
Munich and Inter Milan.
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