Chelsea boss Antonio Conte says Diego Costa was told in January he was not part of their plans for the future.
Costa was dropped after a dispute with a fitness coach, amid rumours of a move to China, although Conte said he was “very happy to play” when recalled.
In June, Costa said Conte sent him a text telling him he would not be part of the squad for next season.
“In January, the Costa situation was very clear for the club, for him and his agent,” said Conte.
Speaking in Beijing on Friday, the manager added: “I don’t to like to talk about players that don’t stay here – for me the situation is closed.”