‘Gabigol’ fired the Rio de Janeiro giants to historic successes in both Brazil and continentally this season - netting twice in the closing minutes of this month’s dramatic Copa Libertadores final over River Plate.
However, his loan deal from Italian giants Inter expires at the end of December and Flamengo have now identified Costa as the man to replace a striker who netted 31 goals in 38 appearances, say Goal.
It is now claimed that Filipe Luis - who joined the Brazilian side on a free transfer from Atleti earlier this year - will act as an intermediary in a planned move for his long-term teammate and friend Costa.
The Atleti striker has not played in Brazil for 13 years since his youth career at Barcelona-SP and is in the midst of an injury layoff until February.