Spain is looking to call up Diego Costa for its upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
The Brazilian-born Atletico Madrid star became a Spanish national this past summer and is being heavily considered by the defending World Cup champions for inclusion in the roster.
There has been much debate as to whether the 24-year-old should be allowed to go to Spain, especially after he played in a couple of games for the Brazilian national side. However, according to ESPN, Costa only participated in friendlies; this makes him eligible to play for another nation. Costa played in friendlies against Russia and Italy in March, but was left out of the Confederations Cup roster in favor of Fred and Jo; both players were brilliant for Brazil in the tournament.
Costa benefits Spain in a number of ways. First of all, he is the current goal-scoring leader in the Spanish League with seven tallies in six games for Atletico Madrid. His proficient form as a striker would fill Spain's greatest need at the position where it has constantly failed to find consistency. Spanish coach Vicente del Bosque has tried players such as Roberto Soldado, Alvaro Negredo, David Villa, Fernando Torres, Fernando Llorente and Cesc Fabregas at the striker position but has never been able to find consistency. Costa's current form would be a better option than any of the aforementioned players. He is only 24 years old and could still be a few years away from reaching his peak; this would give the team a long-term option.
Furthermore, the addition of Costa would deny Brazil the chance to add another star to its roster. Brazil is seen as one of Spain's top rivals for the World Cup and adding Costa would hurt Brazil and give a massive boost to Spain.
There are currently no reports on how Costa feels about the whole matter, but ESPN notes that he seems interested in joining Spain.
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