Liverpool are ready to battle Newcastle United to sign Sporting Lisbon central defender Goncalo Inacio during the next transfer window. The Reds maintained their patience in the summer transfer window, prioritizing quality over quantity after Arne Slot assessed the squad.

The Dutchman inherited a strong squad from Jurgen Klopp with a good depth to compete in the current season campaign. Liverpool added Federico Chiesa in their attacking department for the campaign after failing to sign Martin Zubimendi for the midfield.

However, Ryan Gravenberch’s sensational form diminishes that failed attempt as he continues to establish himself as a strong first choice. Meanwhile, the defence required a suitable successor for captain Virgil van Dijk who reached 33 years of age in July.

Joe Gomez’s decision to stay gives Liverpool sufficient depth, provided they avoid another injury crisis. The Reds are playing the new style under Slot that emphasizes efficiency which could prevent any potential injury crisis.

However, Liverpool lacks a centre-back capable of playing naturally at the left side of the central defence like Van Dijk. The squad has no left-footed centre-back which is their preference for the competition and the eventual successor of Van Dijk.

According to Fichajes, Liverpool are ready to battle the Magpies for the signature of Sporting CP’s highly-rated central defender Inacio. The 23-year-old played a pivotal role for Ruben Amorim’s side in their successful Liga Portugal victory, playing in the back-three.

Inacio has already established himself at the international level with Portugal, gaining vast experience at a young age. The 23-year-old has the maturity and technical prowess to control the game from the backline and dictate the tempo.

The Portuguese international, a left-footer, dominates as the left centre-back in Amorim’s three-man defence. Inacio earns only €33,269 per week at Sporting CP and has a release clause of €60 million which is justified because of the market inflation and his growing reputation.

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However, the 23-year-old lacks the aerial dominance that Liverpool defenders enjoy and his defensive contributions are subpar. A transition to the Premier League alongside a shift from five in the back to four in the back is problematic.