Chelsea are leading the chase for FC Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa as Mauricio Pochettino is still keen on a new No.1.
According to Jornal de Noticias via Sport Witness, Chelsea have taken the lead in the chase for Diogo Costa. The 23-year-old may no longer feature on Manchester United’s list, thus giving the Blues a free run to stake their claim. Mauricio Pochettino remains keen to sign a new No.1 for next season despite Kepa Arrizabalaga’s claims.
After the disaster that was last season, Chelsea were keen on making several fundamental changes to improve their stature. A 12th-place finish seems unacceptable to fans, who are so used to lofty challenges and regular trophy hauls.
One of the areas that lacked regular impetus was the spot between the sticks. After a period of uncertainty over the selection of Edouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga, the latter got the nod to keep the goal for most of the season. Yet, there’s a feeling Chelsea need more in the position, despite claims the Spaniard would start as the No.1 under Mauricio Pochettino.
Chelsea eyed a move for Andre Onana but cooled their interest in recent weeks. Manchester United are now favourites to sign the Inter Milan star, who could cost around €60 million. As things stand, the Blues are in the market for a new stopper and may turn their attention towards Porto’s 23-year-old rising star, Diogo Costa.
Costa was long heralded as a Manchester United target. They could have made an attempt to sign the Portuguese international, but currently want Onana for his experience and style. Hence, Chelsea may have the free run to chase the 23-year-old down and make a concerted effort to sign him.
The departure of Edouard Mendy ensured the need for a new goalkeeper in the squad. For some time Pochettino seemed content with Arrizabalaga, but the chase of Costa signifies otherwise. Chelsea are in pole position for the Porto star, who will not come cheap in this current market.
Chelsea will look to make a decent offer for the Porto star in the coming days if their interest has any seriousness. Costa would make a solid acquisition for this team, although the Blues will remain wary of a high price demand coming from the Portuguese side.
