Chelsea have unlocked a huge advantage over Manchester United in the race to sign Diogo Costa. The 23-year-old goalkeeper has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League this summer following his impressive performances for Porto.
Costa, who sees his contract at the Estádio do Dragão expire in 2027, featured 33 times for Sergio Conceiçao's side in the Primeira Liga last season, keeping 16 clean sheets. The Portugal international's eye-catching displays have reportedly courted the interest of some top clubs around Europe, but he's expected to cost a hefty fee.
According to Portuguese outlet Record, Costa is in on the Blues' shortlist of candidates to replace Edouard Mendy, who's followed N'Golo Kante and Kalidou Koulibaly to Saudi Arabia. The report states that Porto could demand around €75million (£64.2m) for his signature – which would make him the second-most expensive shot-stopper of all-time behind none other than Kepa Arrizabalaga.
With Chelsea expected to face tough competition for Costa, super agent Jorge Mendes will help the Blues wrap up a deal, according to A Bola as quoted by Sport Witness. The report states that the Portuguese outfit are proving difficult to negotiate with, standing firm by their asking price.
A Bola add that the west Londoners have been keen to split a payment of €75m (£64.2m) into three instalments, which Porto have rejected. Last month, Costa was quizzed on speculation linking him with a move to Old Trafford.
Speaking to the press after Porto's win in the Taça de Portugal, the Chelsea and United target insisted that he hopes to continue at Porto. As quoted by the Manchester Evening News, he said: "That’s the internet.
"It is a happiness and an honour to play for my favourite club. What they say is what they say, there is nothing concrete, I have a contract until 2027 and I hope to continue, let’s see."
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Then on David De Gea, Costa added: "I will not say he'll always be my No.1 because in a club like Man United there must be competition in all positions. You can’t do it with 11 players. It is impossible. You need double positions"
Since Costa's analysis, De Gea has seemingly left United after the two parties failed to reach an agreement over a contract extension. Nevertheless, if the Porto star's stance remains consistent – even amid interest from Chelsea – then his comments come as quite the blow.
