Manchester City are increasingly confident of securing Porto’s star goalkeeper, Diogo Costa, this summer — with promising indications that the 25-year-old has already said “yes” to a move to the Etihad Stadium, according to respected journalist Santi Aouna.

A Player Prepared to Join City

Foot Mercato’s Santi Aouna reports that Diogo Costa has given an initial green light to join Manchester City, having “accepted the project” laid out by Pep Guardiola and the club hierarchy.

The Portuguese international is believed to be eager for a new challenge and personal terms are reportedly no barrier, with agent Jorge Mendes spearheading negotiations.

Why City Want Him

Manchester City are preparing for life after Ederson, who looks increasingly likely to depart for the Saudi Pro League once his contract expires ([thesun.co.uk][3]). Backup keeper Stefan Ortega also faces uncertain prospects amid growing interest and internal restructuring. As part of a broader summer overhaul, bringing in Diogo Costa — distinguished for his shot-stopping, penalty-saving, and ball distribution — could address multiple positional needs.

The Price: Balancing Clause and Value

Costa’s contract at Porto features a hefty €75 million (circa £63 million) release clause ([sportsmole.co.uk][4]). However, insiders suggest City might secure him for roughly €50–60 million, leveraging strong relations between sporting director Hugo Viana and super-agent Jorge Mendes, as well as an already solid rapport with Porto.

Family Ties & Emotional Hurdles

A key sticking point: Costa’s deep roots in Porto, where he’s been since age 11 and captains the side. He’s grown emotionally attached to the club and his young family is comfortably settled in Portugal.

Despite it, City believe their Portuguese connections — via Viana and Mendes — and the presence of fellow countrymen like Bernardo Silva, Rúben Dias, and Nico González could sway him.

Competition in the Mix

While Porto captain shows signs of softening, Diogo Costa is also eyed by the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea, both of whom see him as an ideal replacement for underperforming keepers. However, both clubs face financial constraints or reduced urgency, which could give City the edge — especially as they’re reportedly ready to match the clause if needed .

A Decision on the Horizon

Porto ace reportedly preparing for his potential summer departure, with a €75 million exit clause in effect and recoup strategy in development. For Costa, the allure of competing for Champions League titles under Pep Guardiola and operating within an elite squad may finally tip the balance of his long-standing connection to Porto.

Verdict

Manchester City appear to be ahead in the Diogo Costa chase — having won over the player, secured alignment on project vision, and dominated in financial and emotional chess.

The remaining challenge: persuading Porto to lower their asking price and convincing Costa that his next stage belongs at the Etihad. With negotiation intensity rising since late April, a summer announcement seems increasingly likely.