Liverpool eyeing move for 22-year-old Primeira Liga star next summer

Liverpool keen to strengthen their defense by signing Sporting CP centre-back Goncalo Inacio, who has caught the attention of the Reds’ management

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes (h/t the Liverpool Echo), Premier League giants Liverpool are plotting a move for Sporting CP star Goncalo Inacio next summer as they weigh options to strengthen their backline.

Inacio, who emerged from Sporting’s youth system, made his senior team debut in March under the management of Roberto Martinez. The 22-year-old defender is highly regarded across Europe and has a promising future ahead of him.

He possesses all the qualities needed to develop into a top-notch defender, making him a potentially crucial player for the Reds. Liverpool’s need for defensive reinforcements is evident, and they missed an opportunity to sign a quality central defender during the summer transfer window.

Currently, the club relies heavily on Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk as top-choice centre-backs. Joel Matip, who is past his prime, has struggled with injuries, and Joe Gomez also has an unreliable injury record.

Adding Inacio to their squad would be a wise move for the Anfield side, as the versatile Portuguese could fill multiple roles and bring valuable tactical flexibility to Jurgen Klopp’s team.

This young player is versatile, capable of playing as a left-sided central defender or even as a left-back. He’s adaptable to both a four-man and three-man defensive setup.

Liverpool have a need for an alternative left-back, and the Sporting star could offer a valuable alternative to Andrew Robertson in that position. Depending on the opponent, the manager might use him accordingly, bolstering the Reds’ defensive stability.

It is also stated that the youngster is priced at €30 million, which could be a huge bargain for any team. However, it remains to be seen how Liverpool prefers to lure the defender and make an official offer in the near future.

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A transfer in January may not be feasible, as Sporting are unlikely to want to disrupt their squad mid-season. Hence, Klopp’s team might have to be patient and wait until the end of the season to secure his signature.