Chelsea have fined their embattled striker two weeks' wages for failing to return for preseason training with the club. Skysports reports that the fine is believed to be in the region of £300,000. The striker who is currently in his hometown, Brazil granted Daily Mail interview yesterday where he accused the club of treating him as a criminal and attempting to force him to China against his wish.
He expressed willingness to remain in Brazil for a year if Chelsea refuse to allow him join the club of his choice, Atletico Madrid.
"I'm waiting for Chelsea to release me, I did not want to leave, I was happy, but when the coach does not want you, you have to leave. My idea is to go to Madrid, train, get in shape and reach the World Cup, but I am willing to be in Brazil for a year without playing, even if Chelsea sanction me without paying my salary. They want me to train with the reserve team, without access or contact to the first team and its players."
"It is not fair, I am not a criminal, and every week I am being punished. "They want to sell me to China, or to some other team, but if I go it will be because Diego Simeone wants me. Why would they (Chelsea) not let me leave if they do not want me? I have told Chelsea that it is my desire to go to Atletico" he said
