FC Barcelona is already looking to the future in all its lines, including the goalkeeping position. Although Marc-André ter Stegen keeps performingat a high level, the Barça board, led by Joan Laporta, is already considering the need to ensure a transition between the posts. In this context, there is one name that stands out above the rest: Diogo Costa, the Portuguese goalkeeper of the national team and Porto.
FC Porto's goalkeeper has become one of the great desires of the blaugrana president. His performance in the Primeira Liga and European competitions has not gone unnoticed by the big clubs, and Barça has him well positioned on their agenda. Diogo Costa possesses all the characteristics that the technical secretariat seeks: youth, experience at the elite level, and a great ability to play with his feet.
At 25 years old, the Portuguese international is already an undisputed starter for his national team. Additionally, he has been key in Porto's recent successes, showing solidity, reflexes, and a maturity unusual for his age. From the offices at Camp Nou, his enormous ability to build play from the back is especially valued, an indispensable requirement in the model that Barça wants to recover.
Diogo is the heir
Joan Laporta sees him as the ideal heir to Ter Stegen. Although the German remains indisputable, his age (32 years) and some recent physical discomforts prompt the club to think about a reliable replacement. The intention is not to hasten an exit but to plan a well-ordered transition in time to avoid future problems in such a sensitive position.
Diogo Costa's release clauseis around 75 million euros, a high figure for Barça's current economic possibilities. However, the sports management believes it could be reduced through an operation that includes loans or even a player as a bargaining chip. The club is clear that if there is a strong investment to be made in the near future, it should be in the goalkeeping position.
Deco takes him
Deco and his scouting team have followed the Portuguese goalkeeper very closely. His profile fits perfectly with the new sports project, which aims to rejuvenate the squad without losing competitiveness. In the club's offices, it is considered that Diogo Costa could mark an era at Barça, just as Víctor Valdés did in his day or like Ter Stegen.
The competition to secure his services will be fierce, with Premier League teams like Manchester United and Chelsea Football Club also following him closely. However, Barça's interest has the added advantage of being able to offer him a stable project. Medium-term prominence and the appeal of being part of one of the biggest clubs in the world.
For now, there are no open negotiations, but Diogo Costa's entourage has already been informed of Barça's interest. Joan Laporta, who wants to leave a solid legacy, sees him as one of the key pieces to ensure the future of Barcelona's goalkeeping. If economic conditions allow, the Portuguese will be the main target of the upcoming markets.