Manchester United remain keen on landing Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa despite the increase in his buy-out clause this month, Portuguese outlet A Bola claim.
The Portugal international has been in outstanding form for his club this campaign and he has particularly caught the eye with his penalty-saving ability.
He recently put pen-to-paper on a new deal at Porto which raised his release clause to €75 million from €60 million, but there is still plenty of transfer interest.
United have not cooled their pursuit after Porto’s decision, but they are not alone in the race with Barcelona also considering him ahead of next summer.
Costa could replace David de Gea next season
The 23-year-old had his breakthrough campaign with Porto last term where he made 43 appearances and is now regarded as an undisputed starter between the sticks.
His excellent form in goal has also caught the eye of Portugal manager Fernando Santos. He has picked him regularly ahead of Rui Patricio, who was formerly the first-choice.
Costa will have the chance to build his reputation further at the World Cup. It will be interesting to see whether United make a serious move to sign him next summer.
David de Gea has been splendid in goal after a poor start to the season. He has looked the player of old and has been earning plenty of praise from manager Erik ten Hag.
It has been claimed that he could sign a new deal with a 50 per cent pay-cut and Ten Hag will have the final decision to make when the campaign comes to a close.
If Ten Hag’s priorities lie on bolstering other positions, De Gea could stay. His current £375,000-a-week deal expires next summer, but United have a 12-month extension clause.
If United were to pursue Costa, he would be an upgrade on De Gea as he is more comfortable playing out from the back and can make high claims. His reflexes are quite exceptional too.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com and Capology.com
