Manchester City to intensify pursuit of Porto’s Diogo Costa

Manchester City will intensify their pursuit of Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa following another injury setback for their current No. 1, Ederson, according to the Mirror.

Costa is regarded as the ideal successor to the Brazilian, who is now facing a race against time to return this season after suffering a recurrence of the groin injury that has plagued him throughout the year.

Costa, who has a £63million buy-out clause in his contract, still has two years left to run at Porto.

While this price is likely to be beyond Man City’s initial budget, the club are hopeful that a bid around £50million could be enough to secure the highly-rated shot-stopper.

The appointment of an incoming director of football, who shares a strong relationship with Costa’s agent, Jorge Mendes, could also help facilitate the deal.

The Portuguese international’s playing style makes him a perfect fit for Pep Guardiola’s philosophy.

Like Ederson, Costa boasts exceptional passing ability, a key attribute that has helped the Brazilian remain integral to City’s success since his £35million move from Benfica eight years ago.

Costa has won two Primeira Liga titles with Porto, having been part of the club since joining their academy at the age of 11.

While Manchester United also admire him, they lack the financial power to trigger his release clause or compete with City for his signature.

Ederson Key For Man City’s Success

Ederson, now 31, has been one of Guardiola’s most important signings, contributing to six Premier League titles and three Golden Gloves awards.

He was instrumental in City’s Treble-winning campaign two seasons ago, producing a series of crucial saves in the Champions League final against Inter Milan.

Ederson was instrumental in Man City’s treble-winning campaign two seasons ago

The Brazilian also added another assist to his tally last weekend in City’s 5-2 victory over Crystal Palace, setting up a goal for James McAtee with a pinpoint long-range pass.

This brought Ederson’s total assists to four for the season, making him the goalkeeper with the most assists in Premier League history.

However, he was forced off the pitch with another groin injury, marking the fourth time this season he has been sidelined due to fitness concerns.

With ongoing interest from the Saudi Pro League, Man City also anticipate that Bayer Leverkusen could look to sign their back-up goalkeeper, Stefan Ortega, as they seek a new option between the posts.