Scouts sent: Ashworth now eyeing 'superb' colossus for Newcastle in discounted move - report

Dan Ashworth is reportedly now eyeing up a move to sign Diogo Costa for Newcastle United.

As per the Magpies’ official website, Ashworth has now begun his role as Sporting Director at the club, after they received formal approval from the Premier League for him to move from Brighton and Hove Albion.

He will be responsible for the Tynesiders’ overarching sporting strategy, football development and recruitment at all age groups, and he will also work closely with Eddie Howe, Steve Harper and Steve Nickson.

According to Jornal Noticias (via Sport Witness), FC Porto could now end up offering Newcastle a discount for Costa, after they recently sent scouts to watch him play for Portugal.

The 6 foot 2 colossus has a €60m (£51.4m) release clause, but the Portuguese champions may let him go for a fee closer to €40m (£34.2m).

Of course, there is always a risk of spending that much money on a player, let alone a new goalkeeper, as they have to hit the ground running.

There is no doubting Costa’s ability – journalist Zach Lowy has recently hailed him as ‘superb’, as the ‘keeper helped Porto to clinch the league title with a whopping 15 clean sheets in 33 games, and just 22 goals conceded in total (Transfermarkt).

His performances earned him his first cap for Portugal back in October, and he has since gone on to make three more national team appearances, with manager Fernando Santos clearly trusting him over the likes of Wolves ace Jose Sa and former Molineux shot-stopper Rui Patricio.

Also, Costa is still only 22 years of age, so he has plenty of years left at the top level.

In other news, find out who NUFC have now backed away from signing here!

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