To replace Real Madrid’s 25-year-old goalie Andriy Lunin, Jorge Mendes may suggest FC Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa.

Andriy Lunin may not have a bright future at Real Madrid, according to a report from the Spanish publication AS. Jorge Mendes, the agent of the Ukrainian international, will meet with the decision-makers at Santiago Bernabeu to talk about the 25-year-old’s future. Furthermore, he might recommend Diogo Costa, the custodian for FC Porto, as a successor, despite the fact that he might cost about €75 million.

The ascent to prominence of Diogo Costa

In the past several years, Diogo Costa has proven to be among the world’s top goalkeepers. He was qualified to represent Switzerland internationally because he was born in Rothrist. But before making his debut for his country in October 2021, he played age-group football for Portugal, where he spent his formative years.

In September 2019, a few days after turning 20, Costa debuted for FC Porto’s main team. He had to wait until the 2021–2022 season, though, to establish himself as Porto’s starting goalie. Over 150 appearances for FC Porto have been made by the 24-year-old, who has given up 129 goals while maintaining 64 clean sheets.

The feats of the Portuguese international with the Seleccao at UEFA Euro 2024 have made headlines lately. Costa was unable to stop his squad from losing to France in the quarterfinals, though. His development has not gone unnoticed in the interim, and a summer transfer to Real Madrid may be planned.

Is a Real Madrid move imminent?

Real Madrid may soon require a goalie similar to Diogo Costa. In light of doubts over Andriy Lunin’s long-term future, Los Blancos may search for a custodian during the summer transfer window.

The 25-year-old is nearing the end of his current contract and has not yet agreed to a new one with Real Madrid. Furthermore, a few European power brokers have their sights set on the Ukrainian international. In order to address Lunin’s future, Jorge Mendes is meeting with Real Madrid’s decision-makers. He may suggest Costa as a long-term substitute for the unhappy goalie.

The Portuguese international’s contract with FC Porto includes a €75 million release clause, so he won’t likely come cheap. It would be interesting to see if Real Madrid offers the 24-year-old custodian a reduced deal with FC Porto, or if they will fork over a cool 75 million euros to sign him.