Erik ten Hag is keen to bring Goncalo Inacio to Manchester United as the Dutchman eyes a top-rated defender in the summer.
According to Fichajes, Erik ten Hag has set sights on Goncalo Inacio ahead of the summer and would prefer Manchester United to sign the Sporting CP centre-back. Other Premier League sides are also keen on the 22-year-old defender, with the Portuguese international set to ignite a big battle for his signature.
Erik ten Hag wants Goncalo Inacio
Ruben Amorim must get the credit for developing some young talents while at Sporting CP, with Goncalo Inacio as the torch-bearer of this project. The Portuguese side are aware of the growing interest in the 22-year-old defender and would want to extend his deal, that would also see an increase in his release clause.
Currently, his clause stands at €60 million, which is reasonable for many clubs, particularly those from the Premier League. Manchester United wanted him in January, but they faced a FFP-shaped roadblock in pursuing the Portuguese defender.
Erik ten Hag retains an interest and would push Manchester United to bring the 22-year-old defender as part of his defensive shakeup. The Red Devils have suffered from a lack of consistent performers at the back, either due to form or injuries.
For instance, key man Lisandro Martinez is set to miss his second big spell of the season with yet another injury, while Luke Shaw has also missed many games. Hence, someone like Inacio could provide direct competition to the duo, considering Ten Hag can use either at left back when the Portuguese man starts centrally.
Manchester United faces intense competition for Inacio
Ten Hag may have ambitions to land the 22-year-old defender. However, there’s enough evidence to suggest a lot of Manchester United’s rivals are also angling for a move, including Newcastle United and Liverpool. Real Madrid were also interested after David Alaba’s injury and could return in the summer with an approach.
One of the most significant threat for Manchester United may come from Arsenal, who had the defender in their sights in January. The Gunners had thought about making a loan-to-buy offer in January and could return with an approach when the summer window opens.
