Barcelona dismisses Diogo Costa speculation as Deco reaffirms Ter Stegen’s role as priority

Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, has made it clear that the club is not pursuing a new goalkeeper despite recent transfer rumours. In statements shared by Fabrizio Romano, Deco emphasized that Marc-André ter Stegen remains firmly in Barcelona's plans as their top-choice goalkeeper for the foreseeable future.

Ter Stegen, whose current contract with Barça extends for another three years, is set to retain his position without competition for a replacement. Deco addressed the speculation around Diogo Costa, the talented 25-year-old Porto goalkeeper who has attracted interest from top clubs and carries a hefty price tag of €40 million.

However, Deco squashed the notion that Barcelona is considering Costa or any other goalkeeper to succeed Ter Stegen. He was adamant about the stability of the club’s goalkeeping plans, saying, “Our priority is Ter Stegen, who has a contract with Barcelona for the next three years.”

Further clarifying Barcelona's stance, Deco pointed out that it would be unappealing for Costa to join Barça solely as a backup goalkeeper. “If I were in Diogo Costa’s place,” Deco remarked, “I am not sure I’d move to Barcelona just to be a substitute. We are not working on signing him.”

What’s next for Diogo Costa?

Deco’s straightforward response signals Barcelona’s confidence in Ter Stegen’s abilities and their intention to build their squad around their star goalkeeper, rather than seek a potential successor. Ter Stegen, who has been a reliable force between the posts for Barcelona, has earned Deco’s full support to continue as the club’s primary option, leaving no room for speculation about an impending transfer.

With these statements, Deco has effectively ended any rumours of Diogo Costa moving to Barcelona, reaffirming the club’s loyalty to Ter Stegen as they focus on strengthening other areas of their roster. This unwavering stance solidifies Ter Stegen's role and relays a strong message of continuity from the club’s leadership.