Story by Ahad Shaukat, Caught Offside
Chelsea are pushing to solve one of the few remaining weaknesses in their squad, with advanced negotiations reportedly underway for Porto’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Xabi Alonso has inherited a talented group, but the position between the posts still lacks the certainty expected from a team aiming to challenge for the Premier League and Champions League.
Chelsea have spent much of the window reshaping the squad and creating room for new arrivals, yet they have not secured a clear long-term upgrade in goal.
A proven international who is comfortable in possession would suit Alonso’s build-up approach and could immediately raise confidence across the defence.
Chelsea enter talks to sign Portuguese goalkeeper
Journalist Pedro Almeida claims Chelsea and Porto are now in advanced talks over a transfer.
The update represents a significant development after weeks of interest, although neither club has officially confirmed that an agreement is close.
Chelsea’s need is easy to understand. Robert Sánchez has delivered some strong performances but has not always provided consistent security, while the future of other goalkeepers remains uncertain.
The Porto captain offers leadership, sharp reflexes and the ability to begin attacks with accurate passing.
He would not simply arrive as competition; he would be expected to become Alonso’s long-term number one and bring the stability Chelsea have lacked in recent seasons.
Former Portugal international goalkeeper Eduardo has described Costa as ‘one of the best goalkeepers‘.
| Player | Club | League | Matches | Minutes | Clean Sheets |
| Diogo Costa | FC Porto | Primeira Liga | ~33 | 2,907 | 21 |
| Robert Sánchez | Chelsea | Premier League | 35 | 3,039 | 8 |
| Backup GKs (e.g., Jørgensen) | Chelsea | Premier League | 3 | 379 | 1 |
Costa’s record of 2025/26 compared to Chelsea goalkeepers
Porto’s valuation and rival interest could decide the deal
Portuguese newspaper Record previously reported that Chelsea were prepared to offer around €40 million, while Porto were unlikely to accept less than the goalkeeper’s €60 million release clause.
It also mentioned interest from Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, which could strengthen Porto’s negotiating position if either club enters the race.
Chelsea should increase their offer without automatically paying the full clause.
Their busy window has required careful squad management, and another expensive deal must deliver an immediate improvement.
The Portuguese international appears well suited to Alonso’s football and is young enough to hold the position for years, but Chelsea must move decisively before rival interest creates an auction.
