Frank Lampard has claimed that Chelsea will face a tough task attempting to replace Diego Costa if the Spain forward leaves the club.

Last month, Costa revealed that Blues manager Antonio Conte told him to leave Stamford Bridge this summer after being deemed surplus to requirements ahead of the 2017-18 campaign.

"He's a fantastic striker and we all saw that last season and since he's been at Chelsea. He would be very difficult to replace, there's no doubt about it," Lampard told Sky Sports News.

"I don't know where Diego Costa's mind is, whether he wants to leave or not, that's all speculation. One thing that is for sure, is that you've got a great striker in him.

"So, if he stays, brilliant, if he doesn't, then you'll have to go to the top end of the world's strikers to replace him. He's an all-round physical presence that also has the quality to get goals, that's not easy to find in the modern day."

Costa, who is reportedly mulling over a move to former club Atletico Madrid, scored 20 goals in 35 Premier League appearances last season as Chelsea cruised to the title.