chelsea's The search for long-term certainty between posts could become even more complicated in the coming weeks. Portuguese coverage is now focused on how much more valuable Diogo Costa could become at the World Cup.
The Porto captain has already established himself among the most highly rated goalkeepers in Europe. Having kept 26 clean sheets in 53 matches this season and conceding only 13 league goals in 31 matches, he is heading into the tournament with significant momentum.
according to recordDiogo Costa is already considered one of the most valuable goalkeepers of the World Cup. The newspaper values him at €40m (£34m). He is behind only Spain's Joan Garcia with €45m (£38m) among goalkeepers who have started for their national teams.
But that valuation may not last long.
World Cup could push prices even higher
The Portuguese newspaper argues that the tournament provides another big shop window for Porto's goalkeeper.
Diogo Costa has previous experience of seeing his value increase after major international competitions. The report suggests his market valuation could reach €45m (£38m) after the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024.
Now, with Portugal among the contenders and Costa entering the competition in excellent form, there is hope inside Porto that another strong tournament could further strengthen their position in the market.
In fact, the record suggests that Porto's hierarchy are closely monitoring how their evaluation of their captain evolves during the competition. The newspaper presents the World Cup as an important opportunity for Costa. He can increase his status even further.
This will hardly be welcome news for Chelsea, who are consistently linked to specific goalkeeping options. The club is looking for more stability in this position.
liverpool Mentioned earlier as another logical destination. But Alison Baker's Recently confirmed that he intends to remain at Anfield Eliminates most of Merseyside's immediate needs.
This makes Chelsea stand out more clearly among the clubs that could realistically pursue Costa.
It appears Porto is preparing for every scenario
Interestingly, Porto continue to insist that they are not planning to sell their captain, but the Portuguese media are more focused on what the departure would be like.
As well as its valuation analysis, the Record devoted separate coverage to the financial and sporting impact of a potential sale.
As a product of Porto's academy, Diogo Costa would make huge gains. In fact, almost the entire transfer fee will be booked as capital gains. This will be in addition to the contractual costs and renewal-related expenses accrued during his career.
This financial aspect becomes even more important with Porto renewing the goalkeeper this season and reducing his release clause to €60m (£51m). Recent reports in Portugal have revealed that the club will still expect offers in excess of €50m (£43m) before considering a deal.
The newspaper also highlighted comments from club president André Villas-Boas. He has previously described Costa as "A highly sought-after player".
PSG have again been mentioned among the clubs keeping an eye on the Portugal international, underscoring that Chelsea will not be a clear cut winner if a transfer battle develops.
Porto already discussing life after Costa
Perhaps the most revealing aspect of the coverage has been the attention paid to Porto's succession planning.
The newspaper examined the club's goalkeeping department and concluded that significant uncertainties remained behind Costa.
Claudio Ramos is approaching the end of his contract. Gonçalo Ribeiro has attracted interest from elsewhere. Additionally, Samuel Portugal is not expected to have a future at the club following his return from Saudi Arabia. João Afonso came from Santa Clara. Meanwhile, Joao Costa and Diogo Fernandes remain relatively inexperienced options.
More importantly, the record draws a clear conclusion: if Diogo Costa leaves, Porto will have to enter the market for another goalkeeper.
It doesn't seem like any club are expecting an imminent departure. Yet it shows that talks in Portugal are moving beyond whether Costa is good enough for an elite transfer.
Instead, the focus is increasingly turning to how meaningful such a move might be and what Porto would do if it happened.
For Chelsea, it is a reminder that waiting until after the World Cup may have a price to pay. If Diogo Costa performs on the biggest stage, the transfer, already worth around €60m (£51m), could become even more expensive.
🇦🇷 Kendry Page | Talents heading back to Chelsea due to loan cancellations early - bad move for everyone involved https://t.co/FuCXBsR9uM #cfc
- Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) 16 June 2026
