Liverpool handed potential release clause boost in the race for Iberian defensive ace

Compromise could see Liverpool land Sporting defender Goncalo Inacio for a reduced fee

Liverpool have been handed a potential transfer boost regarding Goncalo Inacio, with Sporting Lisbon reportedly willing to accept a reduced £39 million upfront fee for the defender.

As reported by Diario de Noticias (h/t Liverpool Echo

), Sporting would allow Inacio to leave for 75% of his £52 million release clause paid initially, with the remainder in instalments based on performance.

This compromise could allow Liverpool to land the highly-rated 22-year-old centre-back for a cut-price initial outlay in January.

Inacio is expected to make a decision soon on his future, with Liverpool competing against Newcastle United, Manchester United and Real Madrid for his signature. Clearly, there is no lack of competition.

The Portugal international only recently signed an improved contract with Sporting. But the opportunity to join Liverpool could prove persuasive if the Reds play their cards right.

At just £39 million upfront, Inacio would represent tremendous value for a defender lauded for his aerial presence, passing range, and ability to contribute offensively. He has played all 10 matches for Sporting this season and has performed consistently.

With Virgil Van Dijk and Joel Matip ageing, Liverpool may need to upgrade their centre-back options for the long term. Inacio would provide an instant starter to build around and can develop into a top-class cornerstone at Anfield in the years to come.

Liverpool scouts will have seen enough of Inacio to recommend him while the reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano labelled him “one of the top young defenders in Europe.” Inacio is a Sporting Academy product that has played more than 130 matches in the white-green jersey.

More Liverpool News

• Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp provides update on Thiago Alcantara and Stefan Bajcetic
• Jurgen Klopp sheds light on the versatility of Cody Gakpo
• Liverpool manager provides an update on Luis Diaz ahead of trip to Luton

While still well-stocked at centre-back, the chance to sign Inacio for a reasonable fee may prove too appealing for Liverpool to pass up as they plan for the future. After all, we need to keep developing and rebuilding.