Manchester United are in pole position to sign Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio, who is valued at around €45 million.
According to a report from A Bola, Manchester United have emerged as the favourite in the race to sign Goncalo Inacio. The Sporting CP defender is a sought-after prospect in the market, with Newcastle United also involved in the chase. But it appears Manchester United have taken the lead, as they are weighing up a fresh offer for the defender.
Sporting have no intention to offload their star player for any less than the value of his release clause which stands at around €45 million. It appears United are willing to make an offer of €40 million, with the additional €5 million to be met by several performance-related add-ons.
A product of the prestigious Sporting academy, Inacio has been a vital cog in the club’s backline since making his breakthrough last season. His defensive contributions were critical in helping the Lions break Benfica and Porto’s hegemony over Portuguese football last term by winning the league title.
A centre-back by trade, Inacio has maintained his form in the current season. He has raised many eyebrows with his firm control over possession, coupled with his qualities in the build-up. Standing at 1.85m, the defender has the physical stature to make him a rock at the back while thriving in aerial duels.
Despite his excellent performances, the 20-year-old is yet to make his debut for the Portuguese national team. But the youngster is hoping a summer move to Manchester United could change that.
Amid uncertainty over the future of Eric Bailly and Phil Jones, the Red Devils are currently in the market for defensive reinforcements. The addition of Inacio, in that regard, could go a long way in helping Erik ten Hag add some much-needed competition for the likes of Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof.
Despite being only 20, the Sporting CP defender has shown tremendous quality, even in Europe. His technical ability and dogged defensive nature could come in handy for a Manchester United side that could be set to undergo massive changes under the leadership of ten Hag next season.
Inacio himself could fancy a move to Old Trafford as he will be able to partner up with compatriots Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo, although the latter is facing an uncertain future following the club’s failure to secure Champions League football next season.