According to a report from A Bola, they have “found out” Chelsea are interested in FC Porto and Portuguese international goalkeeper Diogo Costa.
Chelsea Target £64.5m Diogo Costa
Costa Admired My Chelsea and Manchester United
A report from the Metro has stated that Chelsea are in the market for a new goalkeeper with the impending departure of Edouard Mendy to Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli. The Stamford Bridge club are exploring a deal to sign Costa from FC Porto, according to the report from A Bola. The report also mentions that the Portuguese club will not sell their star goalkeeper unless the £64.5 million release clause is paid in full, which would make the 23-year-old the second-most expensive goalkeeper in history – behind Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Read More: Star Tells Club to Let Him Join Manchester United After Personal Terms Agreed
The report from the Metro states that Manchester United are big fans of the Portuguese goalkeeper, with Porto’s hardline stance on the fee, proving to be a sticking point for the Red Devils. The same update explains that Chelsea are prepared to pay the £64.5 million release clause, but are hoping FC Porto will accept three instalments at £21.5 million. According to The Athletic, Manchester United have a reported summer transfer budget of £100 million due to financial fair play rules.
Read More: Manchester United Sale Nearly Complete as New Bid Is Viewed ‘Favourably’
Chelsea are reportedly looking to collect over £200 million in sales this summer, to fund a rebuild under Mauricio Pochettino. Looking at both clubs’ budgets for this summer, it appears Chelsea will have a higher transfer war chest than the red half of Manchester. The lower budget for Erik ten Hag could see his team miss out on another target, with the Mason Mount deal looking uncertain after Chelsea rejected three offers for the England International.
What Qualities Costa Offers
The Portuguese international possesses exceptional distribution, which would appeal to Ten Hag and Pochettino, who like their teams to play out from the back. Costa is dominant on crosses and is an impressive shot-stopper, which would make him a great buy for either Chelsea or Manchester United.
Main image credit: Daniel on Flickr, CC BY 2.0.
