Man Utd stepping up their efforts to sign Sporting CP defender | OneFootball

Manchester United are preparing to step up their interest in Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio, according to A Bola (today’s edition).

The Red Devils are aiming to sign a marquee centre-back and are currently in talks with Everton about a move for Jarrad Branthwaite.

However, they have yet to make a breakthrough in negotiations with the Toffees reluctant to reduce their £70 million valuation.

United have bid for £35m plus £8m in add-ons, and they are prepared to move on if the Toffees refuse a compromise.

The club are reportedly ‘preparing to advance’ with an approach for Inacio, who has been a long-term target.

The Primeira Liga winner has been on United’s radar for the past two years, and they are finally prepared to make an approach for him.

The Portuguese currently has a £51m release clause in his contract and Sporting are reluctant to accept anything less.

Inacio would be a better choice than Branthwaite

Inacio is one of the best ball-playing centre-backs in the Portuguese top flight. He averaged 67 passes with an accuracy of 89 percent last term.

The 22-year-old also won four duels and 1.5 tackles per game alongside two clearances and almost five recoveries. He helped to keep 13 clean sheets.

Inacio can play on the left and right side of central defence, though he has played in a back three for Sporting.

United will likely make another improved bid for Branthwaite of around £50m.

If the Toffees don’t change their stance on the Englishman, United could genuinely consider paying the release clause in Inacio’s contract.

Stats from Sofascore.com & FBref.com.