Barcelona set to face competition from European giants for Portugal star - Reports
Barcelona are set to be joined by European rivals Bayern Munich in their pursuit of Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa, as per a SPORT report. The FC Porto man has emerged as a top goalkeeping target for both clubs for the 2025 summer window.
Barcelona are in the market for a replacement for Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who ruptured his patellar tendon earlier this season. The 32-year-old German goalkeeper is out for the remainder of the campaign and will be 33 by the time of his return to full fitness.
Like the Spanish outfit, Bayern Munich are also in the market for a new goalkeeper as they seek a long-term replacement for Manuel Neuer. The 38-year-old shot-stopper looks to be past his prime, leading the club to look to sign a younger goalkeeper.
SPORT reports that both Bayern Munich and Barcelona are set to face off for the transfer of Diogo Costa from FC Porto in the summer. The 25-year-old Portugal international has distinguished himself as one of the best in the world in his position and is bound for a top European side.
Costa has a €75 million release clause in his contract at his Portuguese club, but previous reports have indicated that the goalkeeper will be available for a much lower fee. Barcelona do not have the financial muscle to compete with Bayern Munich for the goalkeeper's signing, potentially complicating things for them.
The Spanish giants can, however, find a way to work things out with the player and his club, seeing as they have a good relationship with his agent Jorge Mendes. As a result, a move to either side remains a possibility for the Portugal international.
Barcelona star pens mammoth contract extension
Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez has signed a new contract with the Catalan giants until 2029. The La Masia graduate becomes the latest from the academy to sign a long-term contract, joining the likes of Pau Cubarsi and Lamine Yamal.
Lopez debuted for the club in the 2023-24 season and made 43 first-team appearances before going on to star for the national team. He was part of the squad that won Euro 2024 and then scored six goals in six games to lead Spain to an Olympic gold medal.
Fermin Lopez has featured just six times for Hansi Flick's side this season due to injury, but the club recognizes his importance. His new five-year contract includes a release clause of €500 million, with the club reluctant to lose the 21-year-old.