Chelsea ‘join’ Tottenham and Man Utd in race for World Cup goalkeeper

Chelsea are targeting a move for FC Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa, according to GiveMeSport. The 23-year-old was Portugal’s number one during the World Cup.

Costa rose up through Porto’s academy ranks before making his senior debut in 2019, though didn’t establish himself as their first choice ‘keeper until last season. Costa made 33 appearances in the Primeira Liga as he helped them win the league title and the Taca de Portugal, as well as being named as the Goalkeeper of the Season and in the Team of the Year.

Costa’s brilliant form saw him called up to the Portugal senior squad last summer and he went onto make his debut in October 2021, later being selected as their first-choice in between the sticks for the World Cup qualifiers.

The Porto star has shone for Portugal in Qatar this winter, though was arguably at fault for the goal that saw Morocco progress to the semi-finals - however that clearly hasn’t put off Chelsea form declaring interest in him. Graham Potter has made his intentions of signing a new ‘keeper clear, with neither Edouard Mendy or Kepa Arrizabalaga managing to impress him this season.

While Costa could be open to a move to the Premier League, his recent contract extension will make it much harder for Chelsea to lure him away from Estádio do Dragão. The 23-year-old signed a new deal until 2027 last month, with a €75m release clause included. Despite his impressive performances for club and country, it would be a surprise to see the Blues fork out so much money for another ‘keeper - especially after they spent a similar amount on Kepa in 2018.

Man United and Tottenham will also prove to be tough challengers for his signature too, with both looking for a replacement for their veteran shotstoppers in David de Gea and Hugo Lloris. The former could leave Old Trafford when his contract expires in the summer, while Lloris is unlikely to remain in Spurs’ team despite signing a new deal in January.