Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa remains a priority for Manchester United as the club has scouted him on multiple occasions this season.
According to 90min, United have been monitoring Diogo Costa pretty closely as they are yet to reach a conclusive stage regarding their goalkeeping options. Erik ten Hag is believed to be quite impressed with David de Gea’s shot-stopping abilities but is yet to take a final call.
De Gea has been United’s face-saver in the past few seasons as United wouldn’t have been in this position if the 31-year-old had not been at his best in between the sticks.
In recent games, United’s reliance on De Gea has been felt pretty severely. His saves against Real Sociedad and West Ham United can be counted among the best saves in recent times.
The manager spoke highly of him and the club can exercise the one-year option in the contract but his massive wage has been a stumbling block. He currently takes home to the tune of £375,000 and United are contemplating offering him fresh terms but with reduced wages.
Despite Ten Hag’s recent comments, doubts are hovering over his capability to adapt to modern skills and the hierarchy wants to ensure their transition remains on the right track.
Costa appears to be the most sought-after young keeper across the world and United’s interest in the keeper makes the whole situation most interesting. United currently have a large Portuguese-speaking contingent and Costa would feel at home if he does come to England.
But the 23-year-old recently penned a new deal and the inclusion of a hefty release clause could make their work tougher. Costa will be leaving for the World Cup later this month and the United scouts will be having a keen watch on how the player performs in Qatar.
De Gea’s understudy Dean Henderson is very adamant to be the preferred choice at United and any further delay means he would be ready to fulfil his wishes anywhere else.
United could retain the service of De Gea and could also add Costa in the mix but that would need a huge investment which they might not be able to afford as things stand.
