Chelsea are reportedly considering a move for FC Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa and have come up with a ‘formula’ on how to sign him this summer.
The Portugal international has caught the attention of several top European clubs. For instance, Manchester United are interested in signing him, along with the Blues.
Now, it is allegedly Chelsea who are leading the race. Although, Porto will have to agree to a somewhat cheeky proposal for them to get the deal done.
Mauricio Pochettino is currently in the market for a new shot-stopper. This comes after Fabrizio Romano revealed that Edouard Mendy will be leaving the club this summer.
On Twitter, he wrote: “Edouard Mendy will undergo medicals as new Al Ahli player on Monday — as contracts are being checked.
“Chelsea have already approved the deal two days ago, waiting to get it signed.”
As a result, Pochettino is keen to bring in a new keeper to provide competition for Kepa Arrizabalaga. And, it seems Chelsea are ready to make an offer for Costa.
This is according to Portuguese outlet A Bola, who claim Chelsea are ready to pay €75m (approx. £64.5m) for the highly-rated 23-year-old.
However, they are only willing to pay this fee in three instalments, which could prove to be an issue.
Indeed, Porto would prefer to receive the €75m fee in full. So, it will be interesting to see how they respond to Chelsea’s bid, if and when they make it.
The Blues have also been heavily linked with a move for Inter Milan keeper Andre Onana in recent weeks, although Man Utd are in the race for him, too. But, it now seems they could prioritise Costa instead.
Last season, Costa made 33 league appearances for Porto. In the process, he conceded just 22 goals and kept 16 clean sheets. This is one of the best records in Europe, so, it’s unsurprising to see widespread interest in him.
As mentioned, though, Man Utd also hold an interest in Costa. So, they could still make a bid for him if they fail to sign Onana, who is reported to be their main target.
With that in mind, it will be interesting to see if Chelsea do indeed make a bid for Costa. Although, their offer of three instalments may not be enough to convince Porto to sell.
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