Man United stalling on £64m target, move for ‘best goalkeeper in the world’ more likely
Manchester United have been linked with Diogo Costa, who has won the best goalkeeper award in three of the last four seasons in the Portuguese top flight.
The Porto shot-stopper is reportedly manager Ruben Amorim’s first-choice target if Andre Onana leaves the club.
United have yet to approach the Portuguese, but the possibility of signing him has been discussed ‘internally’, according to journalist Ben Jacobs via The United Stand.
He is under contract with Porto until 2027 and has a £64 million release clause – a valuation that would be too steep for United.
Man United could now explore a deal for Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez.
Described as the ‘best goalkeeper in the world’ by manager Unai Emery, he could be sold due to Villa’s potential issues with the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
The West Midlands outfit are open to selling the Argentine for a fee between £30m and £40m.
With Villa’s interest in Alejandro Garnacho, Jacobs claims ‘they could do a deal in the next financial year, while Man United work out a quick deal for Martinez, which is seen as a win-win for PSR purposes.’
United have made initial contact with the Argentine’s agent, and he is willing to join the club even without Champions League football. However, he is waiting to see what will happen with Onana.
Also, Man United are exploring a move for a new back-up goalkeeper as Altay Bayindir has failed to impress.
Turkish outlet Sabah Spor claim the Red Devils have offered Bayindir to Super Lig outfit Goztepe.
Chelsea’s Djordje Petrovic is said to be of interest to Man United, but his €30m (£25.5m) valuation and desire to be a first-choice wherever he moves make a deal unlikely.
While United are being linked with moves for a first-choice and back-up goalkeeper, it is unlikely they will start the new season with two new signings in those positions.
Article written by Henry Thornton .