Newcastle United have added Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa to their summer shortlist as they look to bring in a replacement for Premier League veteran Martin Dubravka, as reported by Record.
That error-strewn display in a 5-1 home defeat to Liverpool during last season’s Champions League group-stage is probably what Costa is best remembered for on British soil.
It would be more than a little unfair to judge the 22-year-old Portugal international on the back of what was maybe his worst performance in Porto colours however. One bad game out of 43 across an otherwise excellent 2021/22.
The fact remains that Costa was a major cog in Porto’s relentless winning machine last term, a side who steamrollered all before them en route to reclaiming the Primeira Liga title. He kept 15 assists in 38 domestic matches and was named the division’s Goalkeeper of the Month on five separate occasions.
No wonder, per Record, Costa is now one of the most valuable young goalkeepers on the continent. His market value has reportedly doubled over the last 12 months. And while Newcastle won’t have to go as high as the £51 million clause in his contract, Costa won’t come cheap.
According to Jornal de Noticias, Porto may consider to offers in the region of £34 million. Hardly an inconsequential fee, of course, but still less than Brighton and Hove Albion want for Robert Sanchez, for instance.
The report adds that, in Argentina international Augustin Marchesin, Porto already have a readymade replacement in their ranks.
Newcastle United want Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa
An aggressive, front-foot goalkeeper, the agile Costa boasts excellent reflexes and a real strength in one-v-one situations. He’s a giant presence, too, at 6ft 4ins, even if his handling could do with some work.
“He is one of the most elegant goalkeepers of recent times,” says former youth coach Manuel Tulipa, per O Jogo. ““And a bit like a copy of (Porto legend) Vitor Baia,.
“Maybe even a little more refined in the game with his feet and in his intention to create and provoke a lot of offensive play.
“He has incredible (goalkeeping skills) and ease in taking out crossing actions. In the near future, we will not find a better solution to defend the colours of FC Porto and Portugal.”
Newcastle could part with Karl Darlow and Freddie Woodman this summer. Martin Dubravka, at 33, is a decade Costa’s senior.
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