Newcastle United could push for Goncalo Inacio as soon as the January window opens, as Eddie Howe wants a top centre-back.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle United could plot a move for Goncalo Inacio in January as Eddie Howe wants a new centre-back. The Magpies are not particularly flush in the position and want the 22-year-old Portuguese international, who also has the attention of other top clubs.
Goncalo Inacio stayed at Sporting CPO beyond the summer window despite some of the top clubs keen to sign him. The 22-year-old Portuguese international had a fantastic season with the club and with the national team but chose to remain in Portugal.
The centre-back also signed a new deal until 2027 back in August to at least kill off speculation ahead of the transfer deadline day. Sporting are keen to retain him at least until next summer, but they might find themselves under tremendous pressure during the January window.
Sporting are resigned to losing Inacio soon amid the interest of top Premier League clubs, including Liverpool and now Newcastle United. The Reds are keen to add a left-footed defender to their ranks, something they miss in their squad.
Newcastle United do not specifically need a left-footed centre-back, considering they already have Sven Botman, but Inacio’s ability to play both positions attracts Eddie Howe. The Magpies boss wants to bring a new central defender as they do not have many options as backup.
With the Premier League and Champions League journeys likely to prove taxing, they would need quality depth in every position. Newcastle United were without Botman for their midweek European fixture as well as the West Ham game, for which Howe re-called captain Jamal Lascelles.
The English defender does not come across as a long-term solution, meaning Newcastle United will open their chequebooks to sign a new star in the position. Inacio will carry a hefty price tag, but more importantly, he will have some top-rated suitors following his progress.
Liverpool and Manchester United have both made their interest clear, and hence, Newcastle United must find a way to convince the player. The Magpies do have a solid project to show for, but historically, they may not have the pull of the other sides keen on the 22-year-old Portuguese international.
