Diogo Costa Speaks Out on Manchester United Transfer Links

Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa said he ‘hopes to continue’ at Porto amid links with Manchester United.

Costa has been widely backed to leave Portugal ahead of next season amid links with an Old Trafford switch. The future role of David de Gea at United is not certain after several blunders this season.

The Spaniard is out of contract this month, although is thought to be nearing a renewal with reduced terms. However, Erik ten Hag refused to declare him as his No.1 next season, underlining that he wants competition in each area of the squad.

He said of De Gea last week: “I will not say he’ll always be my No.1 because in a club like Man United there must be competition in all positions. You can’t do it with 11 players. It is impossible. You need double positions.”

Costa, 23, is known for capabilities with the ball at feet and has meanwhile kept 16 clean sheets for Porto this season including in the domestic cup final against Braga on Sunday. Speaking after the match, the shot stopper was asked about the rumours linking him with United.

He responded: “That’s the internet. It is a happiness and an honour to play for my favourite club. What they say is what they say, there is nothing concrete, I have a contract until 2027 and I hope to continue, let’s see.”

There is increasing concern among some United fans over who will guard the net next season with Champions League football back at Old Trafford and a potential title challenge hoped for.

Many felt De Gea should have done better with Ilkay Gundogan’s winning goal for Manchester City in Saturday’s 2-1 FA Cup final defeat, including ex-players Peter Schmeichel and Roy Keane.

Speaking after the showpiece, Ten Hag was asked about De Gea’s distribution. “Say it like this: we are in the right direction. But there are occasions in the game, issues in the game, we have to improve, definitely, if we want to make the next step and win trophies,” he said.

Source:- manchestereveningnews