Arsenal and Manchester United are among the clubs currently monitoring Porto right-back Alberto Costa, according to reports from CaughtOffside. The 22-year-old, who joined the Portuguese side in July 2025, has attracted interest from several high-profile suitors, with Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain also identified as admirers of the defender.
Despite the reports of interest, there have been no formal bids submitted by any of the parties linked with the player. Sources indicate that clubs are currently restricted to the scouting and analysis phase of recruitment. Porto find themselves in a commanding negotiating position, as the defender is under contract until June 2030 and possesses a €65 million release clause. Furthermore, any future sale must account for a 10 per cent profit share clause retained by Juventus when they offloaded the player to the Portuguese giants.
Contract protection and squad fit
Costa’s rapid integration at the Estádio do Dragão has been a catalyst for the recent attention. After completing a permanent move from Juventus, he featured in 47 matches during the 2025/26 campaign, recording eight assists. His form has carried into the current season, where he has maintained his place as a starter under the current Porto coaching staff, including a full 90-minute appearance against Manchester City.
Tactically, the interest from Premier League clubs appears to stem from his versatility and offensive output. For Arsenal, the profile aligns with Mikel Arteta’s preference for full-backs who provide tactical flexibility in possession. Conversely, Manchester United are reportedly assessing the defender as a long-term option to provide competition on the right side of their defence. However, the requirement to navigate a €65 million valuation represents a significant financial commitment for a player with limited experience at the highest level of European competition.
Market status and evaluation
While the player's development has drawn eyes from across Europe, the lack of formal contact or agent-led negotiations suggests that any potential deal remains speculative. Porto, under no immediate pressure to sell due to the length of the player's contract, have yet to indicate a willingness to negotiate below the release clause. Future updates will be contingent on whether interested clubs transition from scouting to active dialogue with Porto’s sporting directors or if representatives begin to initiate formal discussions ahead of upcoming transfer windows.
