Liverpool sent a scout to Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio in the Europa League on Thursday night.Manchester United have long been linked with a move for the young centre-back, who has five caps for Portugal, but they are not the only club looking for the 22-year-old.
Inacio has attracted interest from a number of Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Newcastle United and Arsenal, and is currently under contract with Sporting CP for £51.6m. Anfield Watch understands that Liverpool’s main priority in 2024 is to strengthen their defence, particularly someone who can play at left-back.
Inaciotherefore appears to be an ideal target given his age, experience and potential, with reports now reporting that the Reds have sent a scout to track the youngster. The Liverpool representative traveled to watch Sporting CP play Sturm Graz in the Europa League last Thursday, where Inacio scored twice to lead the club to a 3-0 victory.
A scout who visited Inacio in Lisbon gave Liverpool a positive review of the defender’s performance, which is not surprising given his goalscoring contributions. Inacio scored two goals in just five games for Portugal and developed a goalscoring habit, scoring 14 goals in 143 games for Sporting CP.The left-footed centre-back has also impressed defensively, but it remains to be seen whether he does enough to tempt Liverpool into triggering his release clause.
The emergence of young prospect Jarell Quanza at center back could give the Reds hope. But with his contract expiring this summer, the club must make plans for Joel Matip’s future. The 32-year-old suffered a season-ending ACL injury against Fulham but Jurgen Klopp has suggested the defender could be open to a new deal.
