Liverpool ready to trigger release clause for Goncalo Inacio
The final few weeks of the transfer window have sparked Liverpool from what it appears. Apart from the obvious saga with Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, the Reds are apparently, now ready to trigger the release clause for Goncalo Inacio of Sporting CP.
That is as per Pedro Almeida via Twitter [h/t liverpool.com]. Inacio was a target on our radar before as well. The Athletic [subscription required] claimed earlier this week that the Reds have been looking at the 21-year-old as an option to bolster their defence and the £39m release clause gives us the opportunity.
Liverpool are in desperate need of a midfielder, as well as a centre-back. With Inacio joining the Reds, what we could potentially have is a player capable of playing on the left side in a back-three formation which manager Jurgen Klopp adapted in transition towards the end of last season. This would allow Andy Robertson to push forward as a wing-back, providing width and attacking threat on the left flank.
Inacio is a solid defender who is good at tackling, intercepting, and blocking shots. He is also good in the air and can win aerial duels. In addition, he is versatile and can play as a centre-back, left-back, or a wing-back as well. The Portuguese international is a “master of the dark arts”, as he is famous for his tactical fouls. However, that could be a problem in the Premier League where referees are less lenient.
Inacio to the Reds?
Moreover, his dribbling ability, very similar to that of Joel Matip for reference, could also benefit the Reds greatly. To sum the player up in a sentence or two, he is the perfect amalgamation of the best qualities of Virgil van Dijk and Matip. On-the-ball comfort, great dribbling ability and great levels of acceleration make him a smart choice for the Reds.
The player made 52 appearances across all competitions last season. He could surely be a good signing for Liverpool, as he would provide depth and versatility to the defence alongside Virgil, Matip, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez.
Arsenal and Newcastle United also showed interest in the player earlier this year. That stance might have changed with their recent acquisitions, but Liverpool have a real opportunity on their hands to sign a top talent.
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In the coming weeks, we’ll see how this saga pans out. Will Inacio become a Red? Only time will tell. But regardless of the outcome, one thing is clear – Liverpool’s journey towards success continues, one transfer at a time. But let’s not forget about the midfield puzzle Liverpool are trying to solve. The departure of key midfielders has left a noticeable gap in the squad. While Inacio’s potential arrival is exciting, Liverpool’s need for midfield reinforcements is urgent.
