Manchester United have a decision to make on the goalkeeper front in the near future, with David de Gea approaching the expiry of the long-term contract he signed in 2019.
That deal, which saw him become United’s top earner, is set to expire at the end of this season and there have been few signs that an extension is close to being agreed.
There were even suggestions that Erik ten Hag was keen to replace De Gea this summer but the Dutchman stuck with the Spaniard and that trust has been repaid so far this season.
A host of goalkeepers have been linked with moves to United over the last couple of months but Porto and Portugal star Diogo Costa has frequently been paired with a transfer.
The young shot-stopper has been in stellar form this season and he is now the first-choice goalkeeper for Portugal, with veteran star Rui Patricio finally replaced between the sticks.
Costa did, however, not enjoy the best World Cup campaign as his side were dumped out at the quarter-final stage following a 1-0 defeat to Morocco. Costa was partly at fault for the deciding goal and his nervy outings have sparked debates among supporters.
Earlier this year, journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed that United had sent scouts to watch Costa, with the club seemingly interested.
Now, according to Portuguese outlet A Bola, via ManUtdNews.com, Costa’s challenging campaign in Qatar have not deterred the Old Trafford club and they retain their interest.
As per the report, United’s interest is not unchallenged, with Premier League rivals Chelsea and La Liga giants Barcelona also monitoring the 23-year-old.
SN’s verdict…
Any pursuit of Costa, or any other goalkeeper, will depend on De Gea’s future at United. It’s unlikely that he will extend his contract without the guarantee of being the first-choice goalkeeper.
Dean Henderson’s situation is also an interesting one to keep an eye on. The England international is doing well on loan at Nottingham Forest but he’s unlikely to convince Ten Hag to offset an investment.
