Manchester United have been given the green light to trigger the £52m release clause of a Champions League star who is normally considered 'untouchable', according to AS.
The Reds are planning to be busy in the summer transfer window once again, having spent over £200m last summer to bolster their attack and goalkeeper departments, and now they are keen to strengthen elsewhere as they aim to be playing in the Champions League.
The midfield is understood to be the main priority, with a left winger and left-back also being eyed, but central defence could also be targeted despite Harry Maguire signing a new contract, and a highly-rated star has emerged as a target.
Man Utd Get Green Light for Goncalo Inacio Deal
Goncalo Inacio celebrates for Sporting
Goncalo Inacio celebrates for Goncalo Inacio
According to a report in Spain, Sporting CP are preparing for the exit of Portugal international defender Goncalo Inacio this summer, amid strong interest from Man Utd and other top clubs in Europe.
The centre-back, who has been described as 'the best defender outside of the top five leagues', has become a key member of the Portugal team under Roberto Martinez, and his performances in the Champions League have also been incredibly impressive.
The 24-year-old signed a new contract in Lisbon recently, tying him to the club until 2030, but that deal contains a £52m release clause, and it's understood that the club will not stand in his way if someone triggers that clause this summer.
Sporting have previously rejected offers for his services, but they understand his desire to play at the very highest level and if he can shine at the World Cup during the summer, it's expected that those clubs may return, and Sporting are now preparing for that possibility.
Man Utd Could Make Defensive Additions
Inacio Sporting
While United have moved to keep Maguire at the club by handing him a new one-year contract, there could be scope for more movement in that position depending on what happens in the summer.
Lisandro Martinez will be entering the final year of his contract and has been dealing with injury issues, while Matthijs De Ligt is struggling with a back problem and hasn't played since November, which could raise question marks over his long-term fitness.
Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven are both young too, and with a busier schedule next season, the addition of someone with quality and experience like Inacio could be a perfect bit of business.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick applauds the supporters Related
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