Manchester United is reportedly reconsidering their interest in FC Porto's goalkeeper Diogo Costa due to the club's steep transfer requirements, O Jogo reports. This comes as the Red Devils face uncertainties regarding their current primary goalkeeper, David de Gea, who remains unyielding on a significant wage cut.
As De Gea's contract nears its expiration on June 30, speculations about his successor have become rife, with Diogo Costa previously in the spotlight. United had kept tabs on Costa's performance last season. However, Porto's unwavering stance on Costa's release clause of €75 million seems to be driving United away from a formal offer.
Despite their desperate need for €50m by June 30 to stabilize their finances, the Primeira Liga club sees the Portuguese goalkeeper as an invaluable asset and is unwilling to let go for a discounted transfer fee.
This situation has compelled Manchester United to explore other options, with the Cameroonian Andre Onana emerging as a likely candidate to fill De Gea's shoes if he departs.
With a proven track record as one of the world's leading goalkeepers, Onana outperforms with his shot-blocking skills, precise distribution, and adeptness as a sweeper-keeper. Given his consistent performance, the €60m rated Onana may offer a significant improvement over De Gea for United.
Although Costa's talent as a shot-stopper is noteworthy, the 23-year-old goalkeeper has shown a propensity for occasional errors, which was highlighted during the 2022 World Cup in Portugal's 1-0 loss to Morocco.
Another feather in Onana's cap is his prior association with United's manager, Erik ten Hag, during their tenure at Ajax, lasting four and a half seasons. This familiarity is likely to smoothen his transition into United's playing style.
According to Sport Witness, contacts with Onana's representative have already been established by United, triggered by Porto's hefty valuation for Costa. United's approach to Onana seemingly aligns with their transfer strategy, especially given their concurrent efforts to bring a midfielder and a striker on board.
United's decision over the new goalkeeper this summer will undoubtedly be contingent on the resolution of De Gea's future at the club. Aiming to enhance the team's build-up play, United's choice would ideally offer both competition and potential replacement for De Gea.
