Barcelona are reportedly targeting a top-level goalkeeper in the upcoming summer transfer window as they prepare for life beyond Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who is recovering from a long-term injury. The Catalan club sees this as the right moment to secure a medium to long-term replacement for their captain.
One of their primary targets is FC Porto’s Diogo Costa, a Portuguese international who has caught the eye of Barça’s sporting department. Director Deco has been personally tracking his performances, most recently attending Porto’s Europa League clash with Manchester United to assess the 25-year-old.
**Manchester City Join the Race**
Barcelona now face stiff competition from Manchester City, who have recently entered the race for Costa, complicating Barça’s pursuit, according to SPORT. City are reportedly planning to sell Ederson, whose contract runs until 2026, and bring in Costa as part of their next sporting project.
This potential switch was nearly completed a few months ago when Ederson received significant offers from Saudi Arabia, but both the sale and City’s move for Costa ultimately fell through. Now, the Premier League champions are pushing forward with negotiations, aiming to sign the Porto goalkeeper.
Both Ederson and Costa share the same agent, Jorge Mendes, who is reportedly keen on facilitating the deal. While Costa has a release clause of €75 million, Manchester City are willing to pay around €40 million—a figure Porto may consider.
**Barcelona’s Financial Challenge**
Barcelona’s financial limitations could hinder their pursuit of Costa. Despite having potential negotiating assets, such as a percentage stake in Nico Gonzalez and Porto’s prior interest in players like Mika Faye and Vitor Roque, Barça are at a disadvantage compared to City’s financial strength.
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