Chelsea have now shortlisted Diogo Costa as Mauricio Pochettino attempts to find a replacement for Edouard Mendy.
That is according to Record in Portugal.
So, what are the details involving Diogo Costa (yes, Diogo, not Diego) and Chelsea? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, it has been said that Pochettino is happy to enter the 2023/24 campaign with Kepa Arrizabalaga as his No.1 in between the sticks, with £22m man Mendy close to joining Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia.
Despite that, Chelsea remain on the lookout for a new glovesman who can challenge Kepa, which has led to the Blues shortlisting Costa.
Record believe Chelsea have not sent an official proposal to Porto about the Portugal international, although Jorge Mendes – who has a close relationship with Todd Boehly – is in charge of the goalkeeper’s situation.
The Portuguese news outlet add that Chelsea have decided not to continue pursuing Andre Onana of Inter Milan.
Costa has made his way onto Chelsea’s radar after keeping 20 clean sheets in 41 appearances across the 2022/23 campaign, while conceding just 30 goals.
Diogo Costa surely has to start for Chelsea
In our view, Costa is an ambitious target for Chelsea if Pochettino is only looking for someone to compete with Kepa, rather than become the outright No.1 at Stamford Bridge.
The Porto No.99 – who has been called the “best in the world” by Vitor Baia – would also be a very expensive signing.
Costa is believed to have a £65m release clause written into his contract – according to 90min – which would make him one of the priciest goalkeepers in history.
If Chelsea can find a buyer for Kepa once Mendy has gone, then it would certainly be worth triggering that release clause.
However, if Pochettino is happy to use the Spain international regularly next season, then that £65m could be better spent elsewhere.
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