Porto sensation Alberto Costa has emerged as a prime target to solve defensive inconsistencies, as Manchester United battles European giants for the youngster’s £55.8 million signature.
While Manchester United's transfer window last summer focused on the midfield, and rightfully so, it was evident that other positions also needed reinforcing to give Michael Carrick a squad capable of competing across four different competitions this season.
Perhaps the most obvious position needing depth was left-back, with Luke Shaw the only senior option, as Patrick Dorgu appears to be preferred further up the pitch, leaving Harry Amass as the only recognised alternative left-back.
Centre-back and striker were also seen as positions needing backup, but right-back, which perhaps went slightly under the radar, is not a particularly strong position either.
While Leny Yoro has played there at times, Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot are the two main right-back options, and both have weaknesses that hamper the right side of the pitch.
Man Utd targeting Alberto Costa
Diogo Dalot is a decent option in build-up play, but his defensive output has at times left much to be desired, while Mazraoui, who is much better defensively, lacks the same quality going forward.
As a result, Manchester United have reportedly started looking at available options in defence ahead of next summer, following the trend of the past two summer windows, with defence set to be the main area addressed.
As reported by CaughtOffside, Manchester United are closely monitoring Porto right-back Alberto Costa, who has risen rapidly to become one of Europe's most promising young defenders.
The 22-year-old joined the Portuguese outfit from Juventus in the summer of 2025 and has quickly become a regular starter, finishing his first season with 47 appearances and eight assists.
Manchester United are joined by several European giants in monitoring the right-back, with Arsenal, Manchester City, and Paris Saint-Germain reportedly interested.
Man Utd could be priced out of a move
Manchester United looked to be leading the race for Newcastle United's Lewis Hall over the summer, but were ultimately priced out of a move for the highly rated left-back after Newcastle demanded around £70 million, having already lost several first-team stars in the transfer window.
The outlet reports that no formal bids have been made so far, but a deal would be difficult for any club to make. The 22-year-old's contract runs until 2030 and includes a £55.8 million release clause, with Juventus retaining 10% of any profit from future sales.
His performances this season have only increased his market value, and with Porto under no pressure to sell a major asset, the Portuguese giants can hold out for that release clause.
With Manchester United's recent shift in transfer strategy toward developing younger players, Costa could come in to provide genuine competition for regular game time under Carrick and establish himself as a long-term starter.
However, with other European giants interested, United could ultimately be priced out of a move, as the club will need to bring in several additions across the back line to reinforce the defence.
