Barcelona risk losing Ter Stegen replacement target to Bayern Munich | OneFootball

Since Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s unfortunate injury, which has sidelined him for an extended period, Barcelona have been actively scouting the market for a long-term replacement for their first captain.

Whilst awaiting the German’s recovery, the Catalan giants believe the time has come to identify his eventual successor.

As such, Diogo Costa of FC Porto has emerged as the leading candidate, with Barcelona sporting director Deco particularly keen on his fellow Portuguese.

Bayern Munich enter the picture

However, Barcelona now face serious competition in their pursuit of the 25-year-old keeper as, according to reports relayed by SPORT, Bayern Munich have identified Costa as their preferred choice to replace the 38-year-old Manuel Neuer, who is approaching retirement.

Man in demand. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)

The Bavarian club’s board views Costa’s skill set and characteristics as an ideal match for their requirements and plan to go after him, complicating Barcelona’s path.

Adding to the complexity, Manchester City have also entered the race, with their current first-choice shot-stopper Ederson potentially departing for Saudi Arabia.

All indicators suggest Costa will make his move to one of Europe’s elite leagues during the upcoming summer transfer window.

Deal difficult

Porto remain reluctant to part with their first-choice goalkeeper, which is reflected in the asking price. Costa’s release clause stands at €75 million, though the Portuguese club might consider offers between €40-50 million.

These figures currently appear beyond Barcelona’s reach, and with added competition for Costa’s services, his signing could seem practically impossible at this point.

However, the Blaugrana have identified several other alternatives for Ter Stegen, while promoting talent from within the club also remains an option for Deco.