Jorge Mendes is now trying to convince Chelsea to pay Diogo Costa’s release clause as Porto face a race against time to make sales.
That is according to A Bola in Portugal.
So, what is the latest on Diogo Costa and Chelsea? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well – according to Record – Chelsea like the Portugal international, and are interested in signing him as a replacement for Edouard Mendy.
However, Costa’s €75m (£65m) release clause is proving to be an issue.
A Bola believe Porto need to raise €50m (£43m) by Friday in order to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations, and are keen to find a buyer for their No.99 – who is arguably their most valuable asset.
Mendes has tried to convince Chelsea – as well as Manchester United and Bayern Munich – to trigger Costa’s release clause on Porto’s behalf, although the Portuguese agent has so far failed to find any interested parties.
An earlier story from A Bola claimed that the Blues were willing to spend £65m on the 23-year-old glovesman, but would prefer to pay just £21m upfront and the rest spread across instalments.
That would not be much use to Porto right now, as the Portuguese giants need £43m immediately.
Chelsea should tempt Porto with £43m Costa offer
In our view – if Porto really do need £43m by Friday – Chelsea should offer to pay that sum immediately, and then attempt to strike an agreement which sees them spend less than the £65m asking price in add-ons.
A Bola believe there will be “serious consequences” if Porto do not find some cash quickly, so Chelsea have an opportunity to be ruthless and take advantage of the Primeira Liga side while they’re vulnerable.
Costa is one of the best goalkeepers in Europe, and represents a long-term investment in between the sticks, like Alisson and Ederson have proved to be for Liverpool and Manchester City respectively.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as we could see some movement on Costa’s situation before Friday.
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