Chelsea warned Diogo Costa price could rise as Porto prepare for every outcome

Chelsea's pursuit of a long-term solution in goal could become considerably more expensive if Diogo Costa shines at the World Cup.

The Porto captain is already regarded as one of Europe's elite goalkeepers, but fresh reports from Portugal suggest his value could increase further over the coming weeks as he represents Portugal on football's biggest stage.

While Porto continue to publicly insist they are not planning to sell their captain, discussions behind the scenes increasingly appear focused on what life after Costa might look like.

According to Record, Costa enters the tournament as one of the highest-valued goalkeepers participating in the competition.

The newspaper currently places the Porto star at around €40m, behind only Spain's Joan García among the goalkeepers expected to start regularly for their national teams.

However, Porto believe that valuation could soon increase.

Costa's performances for Portugal have consistently enhanced his reputation, and previous major tournaments have already demonstrated his ability to raise his market standing.

Having followed his development over recent years, the goalkeeper has evolved from a promising academy graduate into one of the most complete goalkeepers in European football.

Another strong international tournament would only strengthen that perception.

Chelsea continue to be heavily linked with elite goalkeeping options and Costa fits the profile of the long-term solution many believe the club are seeking.

The Portuguese international combines outstanding shot-stopping ability with exceptional distribution, making him particularly attractive in modern possession-based systems.

Recent developments elsewhere may also work in Chelsea's favour.

Liverpool had previously been viewed as a potential destination, but Alisson Becker's commitment to remaining at Anfield significantly reduces the likelihood of a move there.

That leaves Chelsea standing out more prominently among the clubs capable of financing a major deal.

Paris Saint-Germain are also reportedly monitoring the situation, ensuring there would be competition should Porto decide to entertain offers.

Perhaps the most revealing aspect of the latest Portuguese coverage is the focus on Porto's goalkeeping department.

While club officials publicly insist they are not planning for Costa's departure, media discussion is increasingly centred on potential replacements and alternative options within the squad.

Questions remain regarding several backup goalkeepers, while younger alternatives are still viewed as relatively inexperienced.

The conclusion drawn by Record is straightforward: if Costa leaves, Porto will need to enter the market for a new first-choice goalkeeper.

That observation does not necessarily indicate a transfer is imminent.

However, it does suggest the conversation in Portugal has evolved from whether Costa will attract elite interest to how Porto would cope if he eventually departs.

For Chelsea, timing could become crucial.

If Costa performs well for Portugal and helps them progress deep into the World Cup, Porto's negotiating position will only strengthen.

Interest from rival clubs could also increase.

The result would likely be a more expensive transfer than the one Chelsea could potentially negotiate today.

Portugal's World Cup campaign could have a major influence on Costa's future. Every strong performance is likely to reinforce Porto's confidence and strengthen their bargaining position ahead of the summer transfer window.

Chelsea remain one of the most logical destinations, but waiting until after the tournament could prove costly. If Costa delivers on the international stage, a transfer already expected to command a premium fee may become even more expensive.

Should Chelsea move for Diogo Costa before the World Cup knockout stages, or wait and risk paying significantly more later in the summer?