“It is true” – Romano reveals Man United want big-money star who they know very well
According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United has deployed scouts to keep a close eye on Diogo Costa, who is reportedly a transfer target for the club. As the contract of David de Gea, Manchester United’s current goalkeeper, is set to expire this summer, it would make sense for the Red Devils to consider signing a new goalkeeper, particularly given De Gea’s recent struggles with his kicking ability.
If the Spaniard cannot reach a new contract extension, it may be wise for the club to bring in a replacement this year. Manchester United seems to be actively looking for a new goalkeeper, with David Raya and Portugal’s top goalkeeper, Costa, being scouted as potential big-money summer transfers.
Reports suggest that Costa may be the ideal replacement for De Gea. The goalkeeper has been impressive for Porto this season, having kept 11 league clean sheets, which has caught the attention of Manchester United scouts. Romano has confirmed that the club has followed Costa several times, along with other clubs, but the player has a release clause of €70 million in his new contract with Porto, making the deal complicated.
The fact that Porto values Costa so highly demonstrates his quality, and his release clause is over £60 million. This may not be the smartest financial move for Manchester United, considering that the club is also looking to improve other areas of the squad, such as the striker position. Additionally, since De Gea is the highest-paid player in the club and has a contract for next season, it may not make financial sense to have him sit on the bench while a £61 million goalkeeper starts.
While Costa is Portugal’s No.1 shot-stopper, he is relatively inexperienced, having made just 100 first-team appearances. Therefore, any deal for him must make financial sense for Manchester United.