Chelsea have stepped up their search to sign a new goalkeeper by making an approach for a gloveman who’s likely to be in action at this summer’s Euro 2024 tournament.
It’s been claimed that incoming Blues manager Enzo Maresca would like the club to sign him a new shot-stopper.
The Telegraph claims that Chelsea are soon set to confirm Maresca as their new head coach and that he’s already asking for a new goalkeeper as one of three priority signings.
Chelsea approach 24-year-old goalkeeper
Apparently, Porto keeper Diogo Costa, 24, is firmly in Chelsea’s sights ahead of the summer transfer window.
Journalist Rudy Galetti has reported via X on Wednesday that Chelsea have now approached Diogo Costa.
It is explained that Portuguese giants Porto are open to selling the keeper this summer if an appropriate bid is received.
Also, Manchester City are admirers of the Portugal international.
Chelsea supporters may get a closer look at the transfer target at next month’s Euros. Costa is in Portugal’s squad for the international tournament, plus he’s started eight of his national side’s last 10 matches.
Diogo Costa suits Enzo Maresca
When you consider Maresca implements a possession-based style that requires quality from the goalkeeper with the ball at his feet, Costa is a big tick as a Chelsea target.
FBREF data recorded that Costa completed 1034 passes with an 84.8% passing accuracy in the Portuguese league this season.
Manchester City’s Ederson is regarded by most as one of the best goalkeepers in the world when playing out from the back. FBREF data recorded that Ederson completed 1077 passes with an 87.3% passing accuracy in the Premier League this season.
There’s not much to split the keepers this campaign in terms of passing, with both playing 33 league matches in their respective divisions.
Pedro Pereira, a goalkeeping coach who previously worked with Costa, explained last year that the Porto and Portugal number one is a “complete player”. In particular, he rates him highly when it comes to his ball-playing qualities.
Pereira told The Athletic last July: “He is a very complete goalkeeper. Diogo is capable of making match-winning saves, he’s really strong under the high ball and can play under pressure.
“He is also very comfortable with the ball at his feet. That is one of his strengths. He strikes the ball with power and precision, so he is able to play to any part of the pitch.”