Ideal signing depends on departure as Man United midfielder set to ‘explore options’

Manchester United could sign FC Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa in the summer if David de Gea’s contract at Old Trafford is not extended.

That’s according to reports from Dharmesh Sheth of Sky Sports, who explained that despite there being positive talks between De Gea and the club regarding a new deal, nothing has yet been signed off.

This has led to United looking to goalkeepers within Europe in case the Spaniard leaves at the end of the month.

Costa, 23, is one of the most highly rated goalkeepers on the continent and would be an instant improvement on De Gea, who has struggled to adapt to the needs that Erik ten Hag has for a goalkeeper.

Quizzed on his current no.1’s ball-playing deficiencies last week, Ten Hag replied: “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.”

Meanwhile, another United player could be on his way out of the club after an unsuccessful spell at Old Trafford.

Donny van de Beek’s 2022/23 campaign was ruined after he suffered a serious knee injury in January. He is set to return to action for pre-season but his future at the club is uncertain.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has said that Van de Beek will be exploring options in the market in the coming weeks as he could leave the club. It was added that whilst the player loves the club and manager, he wants to play regularly next season.

Van de Beek has made 60 appearances for United since moving to the club in the summer of 2020 but has accumulated just over 2100 minutes in that time – which is around 23 full 90 minute games.