Chelsea hijack £64.2 million Manchester United deal as Mauricio Pochettino replicates Erik ten Hag’s transfer strategy
Chelsea are looking for a new goalkeeper this summer, and while Mauricio Pochettino may have passed up Andre Onana, a fresh target has emerged.
Chelsea appear to have up their attempts this summer to recruit a replacement for Edouard Mendy. For the duration of the season, the 31-year-old goalkeeper was extensively connected with a move away from Stamford Bridge, having served as Kepa Arrizabalaga’s understudy.
Mendy, whose contract with the west Londoners expires in 2025, appeared in just eight Premier League games for the Blues last season, keeping just one clean sheet. Even when called upon, the Senegal international struggled to impress and get a starting spot.
Mendy, on the other hand, sustained a shoulder injury that kept him out of the game from January to March. Whether due to injury or lack of confidence, the shot-stopper has yet to return to the elite level he enjoyed under Thomas Tuchel.
As a result, as harsh as it sounds, Chelsea is willing to cash in and offer Mauricio Pochettino with a goalkeeper of his choice. According to the Portuguese newspaper Record, Diogo Costa is one of the Blues’ alternatives to replace Mendy.
Last season, the 23-year-old played 33 times for Porto in the Primeira Liga, maintaining an amazing 16 clean sheets. His impressive achievements have apparently piqued the interest of several prominent European clubs, including Manchester United.
There has yet to be a ‘concrete proposal’ from the west Londoners, according to the record, but negotiations are anticipated to be overseen by Jorge Mendes, who has a ‘tight connection’ with both parties. According to the article, Porto is seeking to get roughly €75 million (£64.2 million) for Costa.
Earlier this month, the Portugal international was questioned about his future at the Estádio do Drago, when speculation about a move to Old Trafford was at an all-time high. Costa told the press after Porto’s domestic cup final victory over Braga that he hopes to stay at the club.
