Right-back Diogo Dalot believes Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa has the potential to become one "one of the best in the world" amid ongoing speculation linking him with a move to Manchester United.
United, who will be looking to get back to winning ways when they welcome Wolves to Old Trafford on Saturday, are open to recruiting a new goalkeeper this forthcoming summer amid doubts over David de Gea's suitability to continue as their first-choice shot-stopper. The Spaniard has been guilty of committing one too many errors in recent weeks and risks being axed as Erik ten Hag's No.1.
The goalkeeping situation is set to be a key talking point at Old Trafford over the coming months. Dean Henderson, who has spent this season on loan at Nottingham Forest, could leave the club on a permanent basis while Tom Heaton's contract is up and Jack Butland's loan from Crystal Palace will soon reach its conclusion.
READ MORE: Wout Weghorst addresses talks with United about his future
Ten Hag has publicly backed De Gea on several occasions this season, including after his latest blunder against West Ham United on Sunday, but some within the club are understood to have doubts over whether he can continue as the Reds' main man between the sticks next term.
Porto ace Costa, 23, has been heavily linked with a move to United in recent months. He is considered an up-and-coming star and Dalot has backed his international colleague to enjoy a prosperous career, whether at United or elsewhere.
"I grew up with him and he's my friend, there's a great relationship between us," Dalot told Maisfutebol. "I know perfectly well that he has the capacity to one day be one of the best in the world.
"I don't know if he'll be at Manchester United or another big club in Europe, but he shows at Porto that he is a big player and has helped the club a lot.
"If he continues there, I'll be happy. If he leaves, I hope he has the greatest success at his next club."
Costa, who joined Porto's academy at the age of just 11, is contracted to the Portuguese giants until 2027. In total, he has made 106 first-team appearances for Porto, keeping 46 clean sheets.
READ NEXT:
Luke Shaw may have helped United find their Casemiro replacement
Get your hands on our 48-page souvenir United v City FA Cup Final print supplement by clicking here