chelsea Scouts were also present when Diogo Costa produced another outstanding performance at the World Cup. Portuguese reports suggest the Porto captain's long-awaited summer move may now be getting closer.
As reported, the Blues were among the clubs watching Portugal's victory over Croatia record. Diogo Costa once again proved to be decisive in that match.
The goalkeeper, who had already earned player of the match honors against Colombia after almost single-handedly preventing defeat, produced another brilliant performance as Roberto Martínez's side reached the quarter-finals.
The Portuguese newspaper insists that these performances are only increasing interest in the 26-year-old. Additionally, he says that Diogo Costa arrived at the World Cup as one of the most sought-after goalkeepers on the market. What he has shown during the tournament can increase that demand even further.
It goes a step further by suggesting a transfer "Could be closer than ever".
Chelsea will continue to monitor price increases
Chelsea have regularly been linked with elite goalkeepers, and Portuguese coverage places the Stamford Bridge club among the leading contenders for the signature of Diogo Costa.
The Record said Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain are closely pursuing the goalkeeper. His World Cup performances only strengthen his appeal. His performances for Portugal have really taken him to another level.
After producing what the Portuguese newspapers described as a match-saving performance against Colombia, he produced another superb performance against Croatia, cementing his status as one of the standout goalkeepers at the tournament.
Porto still waiting, but preparing
Despite increasing speculation, to ball Report that no formal approach or official proposal has still been presented to Porto.
So interest may be growing, but negotiations have yet to begin. Nevertheless, the Portuguese media are paying more attention to what would happen if Diogo Costa leaves.
An Bola said that Porto had already identified several possible replacements. This will happen if they are forced to enter the market this summer. Even though the club have publicly stated that they are not planning on losing their captain, these preparations are ongoing.
His release clause was reduced to €60m (£51m) when he signed a new contract earlier this year. Portuguese reports have consistently indicated that Porto are unlikely to negotiate below that level.
But now it feels like it's all taking shape. With Chelsea scouts having seen him perform excellently against Croatia and Portuguese newspapers arguing that a transfer could be "closer than ever", attention has turned to when a move might happen, how much it would cost and who might replace him if it were to happen.
