According to the Manchester Evening News, Chelsea are prepared to spend £64.5 million to acquire Diogo Costa, despite strong rumours linking the Porto goalkeeper with a move to Manchester United.
United have been monitoring Costa for several months and are considering making a bid, as they seek to resolve their own goalkeeper situation.
David de Gea’s future with the club is uncertain, and he is set to become a free agent soon. United have made a new contract offer to the Spaniard, but they have yet to receive a response.
Costa is a top candidate to replace De Gea if he leaves, and United are willing to meet his asking price. Additionally, United are also interested in Inter Milan’s Andre Onana, who previously worked under Erik ten Hag, at Ajax. Talks between the two parties are being planned.
Chelsea has withdrawn their interest in Onana, leaving United with a clear path to sign him. However, during this period, the Blues have also been working on a deal to secure Diogo Costa from Porto.
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The West Londoners preparing to pay Costa’s release clause in multiple instalments. If this deal goes through, it could be a blow to United, especially if Inter Milan refuses to sell Onana and De Gea departs, creating a nightmare scenario for the club.
Dean Henderson, who has previously been the second-choice goalkeeper behind De Gea, is also expected to leave permanently.
Chelsea is mindful of their financial fair play (FFP) situation, but they hope that paying the release clause in three instalments of £21.5 million each will convince Porto to sell Costa.
This approach worked when the club secured the British record deal for Enzo Fernandez in January. Mauricio Pochettino, the new Chelsea manager, is assessing his squad and considering goalkeeper options.
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Kepa Arrizabalaga has failed to establish themselves as the clear number one. Mendy has already departed for Saudi Arabia in the summer.
Man United will be careful of this situation and would act swiftly in the current market if they want to gain the upper hand in this race. Only time will tell whether they are able to sign a new keeper or prefer to stick with De Gea next season.
