Liverpool Are Leading The Race For Portuguese Defender: What Will He Bring To The Club? | OneFootball

Premier League club Liverpool are considered to be the front-runners in the race to sign Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The club want to add him to their ranks to bolster the defensive section ahead of next season.

Goncalo Inacio has emerged as a solid performer

Goncalo Inacio is a product of Sporting CP academy and broke into the senior side for the first time in 2020. Since then, he has climbed up the ladders and earned the faith of the management. His impressive performances over the years have solidified his position in the lineup.

LISBON, PORTUGAL – DECEMBER 14: Goncalo Inacio of Sporting celebrates after scoring their team’s third goal during the Group D – UEFA Europa League match between Sporting CP and SK Sturm Graz at Estadio Jose Alvalade on December 14, 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)

The Portuguese defender has appeared in 39 games this season so far, contributing four goals and one assist. He is averaging 1.2 tackles, 0.9 interceptions, and 1.8 clearances per game. His splendid performances have attracted interest from multiple European clubs (stats via whoscored).

Inacio belongs to a rare breed of defenders who are comfortable with the ball at their feet. He has good dribbling skills and his high passing rate allows the Liga Portugal side to build attacks from the back. Being 6.1 ft tall, he dominates the aerial duels and is a physically tough guy.

A long-term replacement of Virgil van Dijk?

Liverpool’s reported interest in Goncalo Inacio is understandable as they don’t have any left-footed defender. Over the years, Virgil van Dijk has taken care of the left centre-back position effectively but the club now want to fill that gap as well ahead of next season.

The Reds are ready to lure the 22-year-old away by triggering his €60 million release clause. They believe Inacio would be a great addition to the squad and could be a long-term investment. Although Liverpool are leading the race, they aren’t alone. The likes of Arsenal and Manchester United are also keeping tabs on the youngster and might give stiff competition for the signature.