Manchester United are keeping tabs on goalkeeper Diogo Costa ahead of a possible approach next summer, according to Portuguese outlet Correio da Manha (today’s edition, page 12).
David de Gea has been an undisputed goalkeeper for the Red Devils over the past decade, but there is uncertainty over his future beyond the ongoing campaign.
His current £375,000-per-week contract expires in June next year and United are reluctant to trigger the option of keeping him for another 12 months.
De Gea is open to accepting a pay cut to sign a new deal, but the final decision will be left to Erik ten Hag, who prefers a goalkeeper that is strong with his feet.
According to Correio da Manha, the Red Devils have reserved their interest in Costa and could move for his services if Ten Hag decides against keeping De Gea.
The report adds that the club have been in contact with his agent Jorge Mendes and have asked him to keep them updated about any offers from elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Porto are set to demand Costa’s €60 million release clause following their qualification to the round of 16 stage of this season’s Champions League.
Ten Hag set to make final decision on De Gea’s future
De Gea was in superb form for the Red Devils last campaign, making countless number of key saves.
Despite this, there have been questions over his future. The Spaniard has had concerns with his mobility and ball-playing ability in the past, but he has shown signs of improvement this term.
The 31-year-old has averaged over five long balls per league game and has been willing to play out from the back. He has also occasionally come out of his box to gain possession of the ball.
Ten Hag has been appreciative of De Gea’s progress, but the Dutchman is likely to wait until the end of the season to assess whether the Spaniard can be his number one next season.
In our view, De Gea could end his decade-long stay at United next summer to be replaced by Costa, who recently became the first player to save three Champions League penalties in a row.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com and WhoScored.com
