Chelsea to battle two Premier League rivals for FC Porto star

Chelsea set to battle Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur for FC Porto shot-stopper Diogo Costa

Premier League rivals Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are in the race for FC Porto shot-stopper Diogo Costa alongside Chelsea, according to 90min (h/t football.london).

The Blues are interested in the 23-year-old and have sent scouts to watch his performances. Apart from the Portugal international, the Blues are also monitoring Everton’s Jordan Pickford and Brentford star David Raya.

However, it does not look like a goalkeeper will be the Stamford Bridge side’s priority next summer. We also need a defender, central midfielder and striker. But a shot-stopper is still on the agenda.

Kepa Arrizabalaga is currently the number one under Graham Potter. The Spain international has reclaimed his place in between the sticks after being ousted by Edouard Mendy.

But the Senegal international’s poor performances in recent weeks have seen him pip the 28-year-old in the pecking order. Both their contracts will expire in the summer of 2025.

At Man United, David de Gea is the current number one. The Spain international has been in fine form since last season. However, the Red Devils are looking for replacements.

On the other hand, Tottenham are also planning to find a long-term successor to Hugo Lloris. The 2018 World Cup winner is in the final years of his career and has not been at his best for Spurs in the current campaign.

Costa broke into Porto’s first team last term. The Portuguese star has since cemented his place in Sergio Conceicao’s plans, becoming their undisputed starter.

This season, the 23-year-old has made 25 appearances in all competitions for the Dragoes, keeping 13 clean sheets. However, the goalkeeper struggled to showcase his talent at the 2022 World Cup.

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While Kepa and Mendy are decent goalkeepers, they have not convinced fans of their qualities. Their inconsistency has oftentimes been frustrating. Therefore, it would be wise for Chelsea to go after someone who is young and promising, like Costa, to become the new first choice in between the sticks.