It is apparent that Barcelona have not been able to showcase the same level of consistency as last season so far, and much of that inconsistency has come from the defensive unit.
The club have struggled to replace the departing Inigo Martinez and find an able partner for Pau Cubarsi. Constant defensive lapses appear to have frustrated Hansi Flick, who has given a stern warning to his team.
The German has also identified Barcelona’s weak defence this season and is ready to reinforce the options at the back. To that end, the club are monitoring at least five centre-backs in the market, reports Mundo Deportivo.
Goncalo Inacio emerges as the most striking option
However, among those five names, one name stands out the most: Goncalo Inacio of Sporting CP.
It appears Barça rate the Portuguese international highly due to his technical prowess and status as a left-footed centre-back – something the club are missing following the exit of Inigo Martinez.
OEIRAS, PORTUGAL - JULY 25: Goncalo Inacio of Sporting CP in action during the Pre-Season Friendly match between Sporting CP and Villarreal at Estádio Nacional do Jamor on July 25, 2025 in Oeiras, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
Goncalo Inacio is a regular for Sporting and Portugal (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
Barcelona are eager to sign the Portuguese international, with sporting director Deco even meeting the player’s agent recently.
It must be noted that Inacio is represented by the same AS1 Agency as Luis Diaz had, meaning Barcelona already have a long-standing relationship with the agency.
With more than 200 competitive appearances to his name for Sporting, coupled with 16 caps for Portugal, Inacio has established himself as a trusted defender who can also offer leadership qualities.
However, acquiring his services won’t be easy for Barcelona. The player is likely to command a high price tag while a host of top clubs across Europe are also interested in his services.
Keeping that in mind, the Catalans must get back to the 1:1 rule and fix all their economic woes if they are to sign Inacio anytime soon. The key could be to secure the exit of one of their star defenders, with Ronald Araujo emerging as an ideal option.