Manchester United are stepping up their interest in Diogo Costa as Erik ten hag eyes a new No.1 to bolster his squad.
According to A Bola via Sport Witness, Manchester United are serious about their interest in Diogo Costa. The Porto goalkeeper’s €75 million release clause may cause problems in a potential deal, with the club’s president unwilling to negotiate the price.
Manchester United have decided to bring in a new goalkeeper, but that may not mean the end for David De Gea. The experienced Spaniard has come in for plenty of criticism following another season where he looked error-prone. Erik ten Hag has given no indication he’s ready to move on from the 32-year-old but remains open to adding a new keeper.
In fact, De Gea could sign a new deal in the coming days to prolong his stay at the club. Yet that may not mean a starting spot for the Spaniard, as Ten Hag wants a competitive option to challenge his current No.1. Since January, they have trailed Diogo Costa, but his price tag may cause difficulties.
FC Porto are protected by a €75 million release clause in the Portugal international’s contract. Their president, Pinto de Costa, does not want to negotiate on the price and will not accept bids for less. Earlier reports insisted Manchester United could pay the release clause, but now they are hesitant.
The report suggests Porto needs to raise at least €50 million before 30th June. They could do that with an imminent deal for the €75 million-rated Portuguese international, but things aren’t that simple. Manchester United will certainly look for ways to bring the price down.
Pinto has already informed agent Jorge Mendes about his intentions with the price tag, and now it’s up to the super agent to find a way. Manchester United have also shown reluctance to pay David Raya’s asking price, with the Brentford keeper entering the final year of his deal.
There are rumours; Ten Hag may not have a vast transfer kitty amid speculation surrounding their takeover status. Hence, they are looking to bring the prices of their priority targets down to their liking, including that of Costa.
Costa has been brilliant for Porto this season and had caught the eye of many during this campaign. Manchester United may want the €75 million-rated Portuguese international to come in immediately and challenge De Gea for his spot. The Porto man could also become a long-term option.
Things are clearly in super agent Mendes’ hands now, as he will look to find a solution that suits both parties. In hindsight, Porto might end up agreeing on a fee between €50-€75 million, which could delight Manchester United.
