Man City to ‘Step Up’ Their Interest in Signing £63m Star This Summer – Report | OneFootball

Man City Target Diogo Costa in Potentially Game-Changing Move Amid Ederson Uncertainty

Manchester City are reportedly preparing to “step up their interest” in Porto’s Diogo Costa as they consider life beyond long-time number one Ederson. According to The Mirror, City are keen to move for the Portuguese international as concerns grow over Ederson’s fitness and consistency.

The Brazilian shot-stopper has played 22 of City’s 33 Premier League matches this season, largely due to injuries but also a perceived dip in form. A mainstay since his arrival, Ederson has amassed 365 appearances for the club, yet the once-unquestionable faith in him seems to be wavering.

City now see Costa as a “perfect replacement” and appear ready to activate serious discussions over a transfer. Costa has registered 18 clean sheets across all competitions this season and has steadily built a reputation as one of Europe’s most reliable keepers.

Costa’s Profile Ticks All the Boxes

Diogo Costa’s development at Porto has not gone unnoticed. He’s regarded as calm under pressure, with strong shot-stopping skills and excellent distribution — traits that match the profile City demand in their keepers.

The 24-year-old has a reported £63million release clause, but The Mirror notes City are hopeful an offer of around £50million might be enough to seal the deal. With Financial Fair Play in mind, and ongoing considerations around squad depth, this could be an ideal moment to invest in a long-term solution between the sticks.

Photo: IMAGO

As the article suggests, “City will ‘step up’ their interest in Porto goalkeeper Costa,” a move that could mark the beginning of a new era between the posts at the Etihad.

Man United’s Financial Hurdles Keep Them Out of Race

Interestingly, Costa has also been on the radar of Manchester United. However, their pursuit has seemingly stalled due to budget constraints. United reportedly watched Costa play in Porto’s 2-1 win over Famalicao, but “don’t have the finances to trigger the goalkeeper’s buyout, or to ‘challenge their rivals’ City in the race for his signature,” according to The Mirror.

Andre Onana’s rocky debut season at Old Trafford has prompted questions about his long-term viability, but without the funds to compete with City, United might have to look elsewhere — or stick with what they have.

More Moves Incoming? Eyes on Pedri, Eyes Off Wirtz

In what could be a summer of seismic changes, the same report also links City to an audacious move for Barcelona’s Pedri, with whispers of a British-record offer in the works. That said, their pursuit of German prodigy Florian Wirtz appears to have ended.

Meanwhile, midfield lynchpin Rodri is being touted as “the chosen one” for Real Madrid, per The Mirror, raising alarm bells in Manchester. If the Spaniard does return to La Liga, City may find themselves in yet another high-profile tug-of-war to secure a suitable replacement.

Costa Signing Would Signal Strategic Evolution

While Ederson remains a top goalkeeper, City’s apparent interest in Costa hints at more than just depth. It signals a broader strategic shift, one focused on building for the next five to ten years. Pep Guardiola has never shied away from making bold calls to stay ahead of the curve, and replacing a club legend in Ederson would be among the boldest yet.

With Costa’s youth, composure, and compatibility with City’s possession-heavy system, it’s no surprise he’s now considered “the perfect replacement”. Whether this deal materialises or not, the intention from City is clear: evolve, or risk falling behind.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester City fan’s perspective, this report is electric. Diogo Costa isn’t just a decent Plan B — he’s a statement of intent. We’ve all admired Ederson’s pinpoint passes and calmness in big matches, but the past two seasons have exposed vulnerabilities. Whether it’s injuries or a lapse in focus, something’s not been right.

Costa? He’s the real deal. If you’ve seen him with Porto or for Portugal, you know he’s more than just hype. He commands his box, reads the game like a veteran, and has that modern keeper swagger that Guardiola loves. Imagine him behind Ruben Dias and Gvardiol — that backline would be frightening.

Also, getting one over on United in the transfer market? That’s always sweet. Watching them fumble with Onana while we swoop in for one of Europe’s top keepers? Classic City. Plus, £50 million for a long-term number one? That’s a bargain in today’s market.

This could be the move that secures our defensive dominance for years. And if Rodri does leave (please no), at least this shows the board are serious about reinvestment.