Manchester City target Diogo Costa as £51m replacement for Ederson

Manchester City are planning changes in goal ahead of the 2025/26 season. The club are understood to be open to offers for Ederson, who has drawn interest from Saudi Pro League sides. Backup Stefan Ortega may also leave in search of regular football.

According to Manchester Evening News, Diogo Costa of FC Porto is one of the main options under consideration. The 25-year-old has become Portugal’s first-choice goalkeeper under Roberto Martínez and played at both the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024.

Martínez: “One of European football’s best-kept secrets”

During Euro 2024, Martínez described Costa as “one of the best-kept secrets in European football.” Costa is known for his quick reactions, calm passing and consistency — traits that suit Pep Guardiola’s system.

£51m release clause could be met

Costa has a £51 million release clause in his Porto contract. If City move forward, they would not need to negotiate a fee with the club. He has been watched closely by City scouts and is considered a strong stylistic match.

Technical fit for Guardiola’s build-up model

At Porto, Costa often plays an active role in the first phase of build-up. He is comfortable receiving passes under pressure and can circulate possession through tight spaces. His passing range includes sharp short combinations and long diagonals to wide areas — all of which reflect the positional requirements placed on goalkeepers in Guardiola’s system.

Comparing Costa and Ederson

While Ederson is known for his long-range distribution and sweeping outside the box, Costa offers a different profile: more conservative positioning, cleaner short passing and a measured approach to risk. His style suggests a subtle shift in how City might build from the back next season — with more emphasis on close support and press resistance rather than range alone.

City set for major changes in goal

Ederson and Ortega shared starts across competitions during the 2024/25 season. City are expected to make at least one change in goal this summer, depending on interest and contract talks.

Viana’s background in Portuguese scouting

Hugo Viana, appointed as City’s next director of football in October 2024, will take charge of transfers this summer. During his time at Sporting CP, he oversaw the signings of Pedro Porro and Matheus Nunes — both of whom went on to play in the Premier League. His familiarity with Portuguese talent adds further weight to City’s interest in Costa.