Manchester United face competition from Newcastle United and Liverpool for Goncalo Inacio
According to O Jogo (h/t Sportwitness), Manchester United’s pursuit of Sporting CP’s rising star Gonçalo Inácio has taken a new twist, with Newcastle United reportedly entering the race alongside Liverpool. But despite fresh competition, the Red Devils remain debatedly well-positioned to secure the 23-year-old centre-back, particularly with manager Ruben Amorim now at the helm at Old Trafford.
Inácio has been one of the standout defenders in Portuguese football over the past two seasons, playing a pivotal role in Sporting’s domestic success. Highly rated for his composure, ball-playing ability, and defensive intelligence, the Portuguese international looks destined for a step up, and Manchester United, despite their recent struggles, may still be his most compelling option.
Amorim, who worked closely with Inácio at Sporting, could be the key figure in making this move happen. His familiarity with the player’s strengths, character, and tactical profile gives United a natural edge over their Premier League rivals.
Amorim connection a bonus
With Lisandro Martínez’s injury struggles last season and the club planning a summer reshuffle in defence, Inácio fits the bill perfectly. The left-footed defender brings balance to the back line and could form a formidable partnership alongside Lisandro Martínez, Harry Maguire or Matthijs de Ligt.
Manchester United face competition from Newcastle United and Liverpool for Goncalo Inacio.
While his €60 million release clause is well-known, Sporting CP might accept a slightly lower fee, especially if it means reuniting their star defender with Amorim. That personal connection, along with the chance to play under a manager he already trusts, could prove decisive in steering the deal toward Manchester United.
United’s transfer strategy this summer involves clearing out underperformers to free up funds for key additions. Once priority deals are completed, such as Matheus Cunha and a potential move for Bryan Mbeumo, Inácio remains firmly on the club’s radar.
Premier League rivals circle
Newcastle United may have joined the race, but their need for a left-sided central defender is far less pressing. Liverpool, meanwhile, are still assessing their options and have also been linked with Jorrel Hato and Marc Guehi, suggesting Inácio is far from a priority at Anfield.
For Manchester United, however, the pathway is clear. They have a coach who knows the player, a system where he fits seamlessly, and an urgent need to reinforce the back line. Inácio’s ambition to become a regular starter for Portugal ahead of the next major tournament further aligns with a move to Old Trafford, where he would be stepping into a project built around youth, intensity, and revival.
Manchester United face competition from Newcastle United and Liverpool for Goncalo Inacio.
Inacio is not the only Sporting CP on the Red Devils radar, with Viktor Gyokeres also being heavily linked. Surely bringing in players who are familiar with Amorim’s system will make life easier for the Manchester United tactician in 2025-26 as he seeks to execute his tactical plan.
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Gonçalo Inácio has the profile of a modern Manchester United defender, technically gifted, tactically mature, and brimming with potential. With Ruben Amorim leading the rebuild, there’s no better time to bring in a player who already understands the manager’s system. Newcastle and Liverpool may admire him, but United have the inside track. The only question now is whether the board will act quickly to close a deal that seems almost tailor-made for this new chapter at Old Trafford.