According to the most recent Portuguese reports, Manchester United hoped to sign Diogo Costa this summer for just £30 million despite his much higher release clause.
If David de Gea is the Liam Neeson of football, becoming more monotonous as his career enters its later stages, then Diogo Costa might be the Gary Oldman of goaltending. Look no further if versatility is what you’re after.
Last season, Porto’s starting custodian became the first ever in the Champions League to save a penalty and help set up a goal in the same match, a feat that shows off both his accuracy from the spot and his exceptional distribution. Funny enough, De Gea’s biggest weaknesses can probably be compared to Costa’s biggest strengths.
Reports linking Manchester United with a move for Costa have grown in volume and credulity as Erik ten Hag has become more vocal about his desire for a “number one” who could conceivably be called both the first line of attack and the last line of his defence.
Man United’s interest has been confirmed by Fabrizio Romano. Porto reportedly wants to replace them.
Meanwhile, CM Jornal asserted two weeks ago that the Red Devils were getting ever-closer to signing a custodian with a passing range that would make Paul Scholes wince.
Even Porto legend Vitor Baia last season referred to the 23-year-old as the “best in the world.”
Manchester United continues to pursue David Costa
In his contract, Costa has a £65 million release clause. Offers below that threshold may be taken into consideration due to Porto’s well-publicized financial concerns. However, opening bids around £30 million are almost certainly going to be returned unopened.
Manchester United had a cap of £30 million for Costa, according to Record. But if a deal is made between the two clubs, it will probably fall somewhere in the middle. Despite being more likely closer to £65 million than £30 million.
The Manchester Evening News, on the other hand, confirms rumours that United has switched its focus from finding a “competitor” for De Gea to finding a complete “replacement.” In less than two weeks, the long-serving Spaniard will be a free agent. Additionally, his new contract has yet to be signed.
Costa’s replacement could be Inter Milan’s Andre Onana, who Ten Hag referred to as “masterful” when they were teammates at Ajax. Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton, two Premier League rivals, have made more progress in their pursuits of David Raya and Bart Verbruggen, respectively.
Iker Casillas, a former star for Porto, claims that Diogo Costa is developing into a world-class custodian. “He’s famous. He’ll make a fantastic custodian.
