Chelsea eye £51m Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa

Chelsea have identified FC Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa as a primary transfer target ahead of the summer window, according to the Mirror. The 25-year-old Portugal international is valued at approximately £51m and has attracted attention from several top European clubs.

The Blues are preparing a major squad rebuild under new head coach, with the goalkeeping department expected to be a key area of focus. Costa has established himself as one of Europe's most promising shot-stoppers since breaking into Porto's first team.

Goalkeeping situation at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea currently have Robert Sanchez, Djordje Petrovic, and Kepa Arrizabalaga on their books. Sanchez has been first-choice for much of the season but has faced criticism for inconsistent performances. Petrovic impressed during a loan spell at Strasbourg but remains untested at Premier League level. Kepa is out on loan at Real Madrid and unlikely to return as a long-term solution.

Diogo Costa's profile fits Chelsea's transfer strategy of signing young, high-potential players. His distribution and shot-stopping abilities have drawn comparisons to Ederson and Alisson. Costa has kept 13 clean sheets in 31 Primeira Liga appearances this season, with a save percentage of 78% according to league data.

Tactical fit and competition

Chelsea's system under the new manager requires a goalkeeper comfortable with playing out from the back. Costa averages 25.3 passes per game with an 84% completion rate, ranking among the top goalkeepers in Europe for progressive passes. Porto's high defensive line demands excellent sweeping, an area where Costa excels.

However, Chelsea face stiff competition. European giants including Bayern Munich and Manchester United have also been linked with Costa. His release clause of £51m provides a fixed fee, but personal terms and club negotiations could prove challenging.

Impact on Fantasy Premier League and title race

For FPL managers, a move to Chelsea would make Costa an attractive option at an estimated £5.5m price point. Chelsea's defensive record has improved under the new manager, with four clean sheets in their last eight matches. Costa's save potential and bonus points from ball-playing ability could make him a top-scoring goalkeeper.

Chelsea currently sit 9th in the Premier League table, 12 points off the top four with nine games remaining. A reliable goalkeeper could be crucial in their push for European qualification next season.

  • Costa has registered 13 clean sheets in 31 league appearances this season
  • His passing accuracy of 84% ranks among the best in Portugal
  • Costa has saved 2 of 5 penalties faced in 2024-25
  • He has made 72 saves with a 78% save percentage

What's next for Chelsea's goalkeeper search

Chelsea are expected to open formal talks with Porto in the coming weeks. The Blues may need to sell a current goalkeeper to fund the move, with Kepa expected to depart permanently. A deal before the summer transfer window opens could give Chelsea an early advantage in the market.

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