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21-year-old Liverpool transfer target set to stay put at Sporting CP

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By Shrishh Attavar

Liverpool target Goncalo Inacio to stay put at Sporting CP

Liverpool’s pursuit of Sporting defender Goncalo Inacio hits a stumbling block as the young centre-back stands expected to sign a new contract with his current club. Speculation had linked the 21-year-old Portuguese talent with a potential move to Anfield, but it now appears that Liverpool’s hopes of acquiring his services have taken a significant blow.

According to O Jogo via ECHO, Goncalo Inacio is on the verge of committing his future to Sporting by signing a contract extension. The proposed new deal has an increased release clause from £38m to £51m, further indicating the club’s desire to retain the highly-rated defender.

His potential move to Liverpool would have marked a significant step in his career, presenting him with an opportunity to join one of the most successful clubs in English football. However, it seems that the young defender has decided to continue his development at Sporting, opting to build on the success he achieved with the club last season.

Liverpool transfer target Goncalo Inacio will sign a contract extension at Sporting CP.
Liverpool transfer target Goncalo Inacio will sign a contract extension at Sporting CP. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

This news will undoubtedly disappoint Liverpool fans who were excited about the prospect of Inacio’s arrival. The club has been actively seeking defensive reinforcements to bolster their squad ahead of the upcoming season.

Inacio blow for the Reds

His versatility to play centre-back and left-back alongside his composure on the ball and defensive acumen made him an attractive target for Jurgen Klopp and his recruitment team.

Despite missing out on Inacio, Liverpool will likely continue their search for defensive additions. Klopp and the club’s hierarchy understand the importance of having depth and quality in all areas of the squad, particularly after a challenging season marred by injuries.

Tottenham Hotspur's Croatian midfielder Ivan Perisic fights for the ball with Sporting Lisbon's Portuguese defender Goncalo Inacio.
Goncalo Inacio will not join Liverpool this summer. (Photo by CARLOS COSTA/AFP via Getty Images)

Having said that, the priority would remain to get on board midfielders to increase depth in that department as there is surely an urgent need to do so in the middle of the park.

As for Liverpool, they will need to explore other avenues to reinforce their defence. The transfer window is still open, and there are several talented centre-backs available on the market.

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While the Inacio deal may not materialise, Liverpool’s pursuit of defensive and midfield reinforcements will surely continue, as they aim to build a squad capable of challenging for honours in the upcoming campaign.