Manchester United are ready to step up their interest in FC Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa after opening talks with the Portuguese international.
As per Tribal Football, Manchester United could replace David de Gea with Portuguese international Diogo Costa, who has been a rage at FC Porto. The Portuguese club will ask suitors to trigger his €75 million release clause to part ways with him.
A lot of changes have happened since the arrival of Erik ten Hag. And the Manchester United manager’s has always preferred to deploy a goalkeeper who is adept with his feet. David de Gea has never been known for his passing ability, but there are very few who can match his shot-stopping skills.
However, modern goalkeeping needs some traits on a regular basis, and the 32-year-old seems to be lacking that aspect. The former Atletico Madrid man will be a free agent in the summer transfer window, and there has not been a decision regarding his contract extension.
The Red Devils recently triggered the one-year option for four of their players, including Dogo Dalot and Marcus Rashford. But de Gea’s contract situation at Manchester United remains quite complicated.
The Spaniard is on a huge £375,000-a-week deal. And if fresh terms are to be agreed, a drastic pay cut needs to be done, as Manchester United cannot afford such a mammoth wage bill anymore. The player is said to be open to a wage reduction, but there are still some genuine reservations over his long-term feasibility.
Meanwhile, Diogo Costa burst onto the scene recently and has continued to thrive of late. He was Portugal’s preferred choice in the goal at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The hierarchy is pondering a €75 million swoop, and it would come close to eclipsing the fee Chelsea paid to Athletic Club for Kepa Arizzabalaga.
A move in January seems to be out of bounds, as de Gea remains the number one choice at Old Trafford. Manchester United might have a readymade replacement in Dean Henderson. But the Englishman is not ready to commit to playing as a second fiddle.
Chelsea are also building their move for the Portuguese international as they are not believed to be pretty convinced with their set of keepers. However, the Blues are planning to strengthen their other positions on a priority basis. So Manchester United might have an advantage in their pursuit.
