Arsenal is the latest club to express interest in acquiring the services of Sporting Lisbon’s talented center-back, Goncalo Inacio.
The 21-year-old has emerged as a crucial player for Ruben Amorim’s team, impressively accumulating 122 appearances across various competitions. Inacio’s remarkable defensive abilities have not gone unnoticed, with him contributing 11 goals and eight assists from the heart of the defense.
Furthermore, his impressive performances have aided Sporting in securing the Primeira Liga title, Taca da Liga, and Portuguese Super Cup.
During the previous season, Inacio continued to shine individually, registering four goals and three assists in 50 matches across all tournaments. His exceptional displays caught the attention of the Portuguese national team, resulting in him earning his first two caps earlier this year.
In recognition of his potential, Sporting secured Inacio’s services until 2026, but reports suggest the contract includes a release clause of €45 million (£38.6 million).
While this release clause may seem substantial, it is unlikely to deter English Premier League clubs, as Liverpool, Manchester United, and Newcastle United have also expressed interest in the talented defender.
Recent reports from Portuguese outlet Correio da Manha indicate that Arsenal has now joined the race for Inacio’s signature. Sporting Lisbon appears open to negotiation, as they would consider an initial fee of €35 million (£30.1 million), with an additional €10 million (£8.6 million) based on performance-related add-ons.
It seems that Inacio is eager to embark on a new chapter in his career and views the Premier League as an ideal destination. Consequently, the young center-back is unlikely to engage in contract extension discussions with Sporting Lisbon.
Arsenal is no stranger to the defender’s abilities, having faced him in the 2022-23 Europa League. Inacio made his mark during the first leg, scoring against the Gunners in a 2-2 draw before Sporting triumphed on penalties, ending Arsenal’s campaign.
The potential acquisition of Inacio aligns with Arsenal’s strategic plans to bolster their defensive line for the upcoming 2023-24 season. The Gunners are set to secure the services of Jurrien Timber from Ajax for £40 million, adding competition on the right-hand side for Takehiro Tomiyasu. With William Saliba‘s unfortunate back injury during the Europa League tie against Sporting, Arsenal’s defensive vulnerabilities became evident, leading to their loss of first place in the Premier League to Manchester City.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, aims to address these concerns by reinforcing the center-back position. Inacio’s arrival would provide cover and competition for Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, while discussions are ongoing regarding a potential loan move for Rob Holding to Besiktas. Arsenal has already made significant signings this summer, including Kai Havertz from Chelsea, and they are currently negotiating the capture of Declan Rice from West Ham United for a staggering £105 million.