A year ago
Man Utd 'finalising bid for keeper Diogo Costa with Porto
According to recent reports, Manchester United is said to be finalizing a proposal to sign Diogo Costa, the goalkeeper from Porto, despite Costa expressing his desire to stay in Portugal. The Portugal national team's first-choice goalkeeper has been linked with a move to United for some time, but he attempted to downplay the rumors last week. When asked about the speculation, Costa stated, "That's the internet. It is a happiness and an honor to play for my favorite club. What they say is what they say, there is nothing concrete. I have a contract until 2027, and I hope to continue. Let's see."
However, according to Cofina Media, Manchester United is in the advanced stages of preparing an offer for Costa, as Porto is in need of funds before the financial year ends on June 30. Previous reports have suggested that United, who have been delaying a new deal for their current goalkeeper David de Gea, would be willing to pay Costa's £65 million release clause. It is worth noting that Costa is managed by super-agent Jorge Mendes, who holds significant influence in English football and could potentially facilitate the move.
Should the transfer happen, Costa would potentially join his international teammates Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot at Old Trafford. Throughout the season, Costa has been the first-choice goalkeeper for Porto and has had an impressive performance. At one point, he went on a remarkable run of 16 matches without conceding a goal. Porto's defense, with Costa in goal, conceded only 22 goals, making them the second-best defensive team in the league, behind Benfica, who conceded 20.
In related news, it was reported by Simon Jones of Mail Sport last month that David de Gea, the current goalkeeper for Manchester United, has agreed to a new contract with reduced wages, earning less than £375,000 per week. However, the club has not yet signed off on the new deal. De Gea, despite winning the Golden Glove award for the most clean sheets in a Premier League season, has made some costly mistakes throughout the season.
In summary, Manchester United appears to be moving forward with their pursuit of Diogo Costa, despite the goalkeeper's expressed desire to stay in Portugal. The club is reportedly preparing an offer, potentially facilitated by super-agent Jorge Mendes. If the deal goes through, Costa would strengthen United's goalkeeper options and could join his Portuguese teammates at Old Trafford. Meanwhile, the situation with current goalkeeper David de Gea remains uncertain, as the club has yet to finalize a new contract with him.
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