Manchester United have the opportunity to sign their long-term target from Sporting CP this summer, according to A Bola (page 4).
The Red Devils are likely to reinforce the squad before next season. A new centre-back could be one of the priorities for the manager.
United are set to part ways with Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans when their contracts expire on June 30.
The club could also be without Lisandro Martinez for most of the year due to a serious knee injury.
Ayden Heaven has proved a fantastic acquisition from Arsenal, but manager Ruben Amorim may want another high-profile signing.
A Bola today claim that United are long-term admirers of Sporting CP’s Goncalo Inacio.
The club have ‘repeatedly’ been on ‘the verge’ of turning their interest into an approach, and an offer could be made later this year.
Inacio has a €60 million release clause in his contract, but Sporting CP are prepared to sanction his departure for around €45m.
Man Utd can finally sign Inacio for a reduced fee
The Portugal international has spent his entire career with Sporting CP. He has established himself as a key player in the heart of the backline.
Amorim had a big role to play in his development. Inacio played in a back three under the Portuguese and was comfortable in any centre-back position.
In our view, he would be a solid acquisition. Inacio has a passing accuracy of 91 percent this campaign and has won almost two aerial duels per outing.
The 23-year-old has also made 4.3 recoveries, two clearances and won 1.2 tackles per game.
Inacio worked under Amorim for four years and could seamlessly adapt to the 3-4-3 set-up.
United were reluctant to trigger his €60m buy-out clause previously, but the chance to pay €45m in staggered payments could persuade them to sign.
Amorim could make the final decision. The 40-year-old may not hesitate over the opportunity to reunite with one of his most reliable former players.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com