Manchester United’s new manager Ruben Amorim has reportedly made signing FC Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa a top priority, as the club prepares for a potential change between the posts. With Andre Onana’s future under increasing scrutiny after a turbulent debut season, Amorim sees Costa as the long-term solution to United’s goalkeeping dilemma.
Changing of the Guard?
Andre Onana was brought in last summer from Inter Milan to replace club legend David de Gea. Initially viewed as a bold and modern choice due to his ball-playing abilities, Onana’s first season at Old Trafford was anything but smooth. A string of high-profile errors, particularly in the UEFA Champions League group stage, drew criticism and cast doubt over his suitability for the high-pressure environment of Manchester United.
While Onana eventually found form in the latter stages of the season, questions remain about his consistency and ability to deliver at the highest level. New boss Ruben Amorim, known for his tactical discipline and focus on defensive solidity, appears unconvinced that Onana is the right fit for his project.
Diogo Costa: Portugal’s Rising Star
Diogo Costa, 24, has quickly established himself as one of Europe’s most promising young goalkeepers. A product of Porto’s youth system, Costa is known for his commanding presence, sharp reflexes, and ability to distribute the ball effectively—a trait Amorim values in his keepers.
Costa has also been instrumental for the Portuguese national team, delivering standout performances in both qualification campaigns and major tournaments. His composure under pressure and consistent shot-stopping ability make him an ideal candidate to step into a starting role at a top Premier League club.
According to reports in Portugal and England, Amorim has already spoken with United’s board about the potential move. Though Costa has a release clause believed to be around €75 million, United are said to be exploring options to negotiate a structured deal that could reduce the initial financial outlay.
What This Means for Onana
Should Costa arrive at Old Trafford, the writing could be on the wall for Onana. While the Cameroonian shot-stopper remains under contract, a high-profile replacement would likely limit his game time and signal a shift in direction under Amorim’s leadership.
There is speculation that Onana could be moved on as part of a squad reshuffle, with potential suitors in Serie A and Ligue 1 monitoring the situation. Amorim, keen to stamp his authority and style on the team early, may not wait long to make such a bold change.
United’s New Era Under Amorim
The pursuit of Diogo Costa fits the broader pattern of Ruben Amorim’s vision for Manchester United—focused on building a younger, more cohesive squad capable of executing his pressing and possession-based style. Known for his success at Sporting CP, where he transformed the club into league champions, Amorim’s move to Manchester United has been described as a fresh start for a club in need of direction.
Bringing in a trusted, high-performing goalkeeper like Costa would be a key building block for that vision. In Costa, Amorim sees not only a talented shot-stopper but a potential leader capable of commanding the back line and starting plays from the back—essential in the modern game.
What’s Next?
Whether or not Manchester United can secure Diogo Costa this summer will depend heavily on negotiations with FC Porto and how much financial backing Amorim receives in the transfer market. But one thing is clear: changes are coming at Old Trafford, and no position is safe—not even the goalkeeper who was once heralded as the club’s new era between the sticks.
With pre-season fast approaching, United fans may soon see whether Amorim’s bold vision will come to life—and whether Diogo Costa will be guarding the posts when
the Red Devils return to action.
