Former Newcastle United star’s surprise Premier League return falls through after U-turn

Wolverhampton Wanderers are close to signing former Chelsea striker Diego Costa.

Bruno Lage’s side were forced to explore the free agent market after Sasa Kaladjzic sustained a serious knee injury on his debut against Southampton on Saturday.

Originally, Costa’s proposed return to the Premier League was plunged into doubt after a request for a work permit was rejected.

The 33-year-old, who scored 59 goals in 120 appearances for the Blues, has not played since December after leaving Brazilian club Atletico Mineiro.

Wolves appealed the decision and in the meantime considered other potential options, including former Newcastle United striker Andy Carroll.

Carroll is without a club having started last season at Reading before joining Steve Bruce’s West Bromwich Albion.

Unfortunately for Carroll, Wolves’ appeal was successful and Costa is set to put pen to paper on a one-year deal at Molineux.

The 33-year-old has made 248 Premier League appearances for Newcastle, Liverpool and West Ham, though has seen his career largely disrupted by injuries.

Newcastle could come up against Costa in March when Wolves visit St James’ Park.

The two sides met at Molineux last month, with Allan Saint-Maximin’s late volley earning United a 1-1 draw.