Liverpool have reportedly sent scouts to watch Manchester United target and Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio during the ongoing international break.
According to 90min, Liverpool and Manchester United sent scouts to watch Goncalo Inacio in international action as interest piles up in the 22-year-old Sporting CP defender.
The report states the Reds’ talent-spotters were in Zenica last night to watch Portugal thrash Bosnia and Herzegovina 5-0. And it seems like Liverpool’s latest scouting trip was a success, with the centre-back putting in a solid display whilst grabbing himself an assist during the rout.
Widely regarded to be one of the best young defenders in Europe, the 22-year-old broke into the Sporting first-team in 2020 and has rapidly become one of the most integral players in Ruben Amorim’s defensive system. He has made 132 appearances across all competitions so far, chipping in with 11 goals in the process.
Inacio has plenty of experience at the highest level, with 21 appearances in the Champions League and Europa League to date. He has also earned himself four caps for the Portugal national team so far, so there is certainly no doubting his quality.
With that in mind, it’s no surprise to see top clubs queuing up to sign him this January. The 22-year-old was touted as a potential option for Liverpool during the last summer transfer window, with the club on the lookout for a young, left-sided centre-back.
However, nothing materialised and Inacio even signed a contract extension at Sporting CP, albeit with a reported €60 million release clause.
The Reds ultimately focused on their midfield overhaul during the summer. With Joel Matip’s contract due to expire next summer and the first-team squad light on options, strengthening the defence will be the priority for Jurgen Klopp’s side in 2024, with Inacio dubbed as one of their top targets.
Manchester United are also a team to watch in the battle for his signature, with Fichajes recently reporting Inacio is on Man Utd’s potential list of targets.
It’s no secret that Erik ten Hag is keen to add another quality centre-back to his Man Utd squad. Victor Lindelof is expected to leave at the end of the season, while Harry Maguire has also been heavily linked with a departure for some time. Veteran Jonny Evans will also be out of contract next summer.
A left-footer, the Sporting man could be the perfect option to compete with Lisandro Martinez for a starting spot in Ten Hag’s defence over the next years.