It appears that Manchester United are in with a chance to sign long-term transfer target Gonçalo Inácio this summer.
Man United’s interest in the Portuguese centre-back stretches back months, with the club reportedly looking to sign him last summer.
Once former Sporting boss Ruben Amorim took over as United manager this season, speculation surrounding Inácio’s potential transfer surged, particularly given the success the pair achieved together in Portugal.
The Peoples Person noted that United were reportedly looking to sign the defender on a loan with an obligation to buy in January, determined to bring him to Old Trafford despite their financial strain.
While no inroads were ultimately made, a new report surfaced this morning suggesting that Sporting are increasingly open to allowing Inácio to leave at the end of the season.
Portuguese newspaper A Bola reported that Sporting have set a price tag for Inácio, thereby expressing their willingness to negotiate.
“Now integrated into the team captains’ structure, Gonçalo Inácio ‘s status has grown, and with it the interest of several clubs in the 23-year-old central defender. This winter, he had Dortmund on his tail; in the summer, he could also have Manchester United. And others,” the report read.
“Whoever wants to take him will have to have at least €45 million,” A Bola confirmed.
This figure is not too far off from the 40 million that United had supposedly offered Sporting as the fee in its alleged loan deal, plus the obligation to buy.
Of course, signing such an in-demand player will not be so straightforward as forking out €45 million. In addition to potentially facing competition from Borussia Dortmund, as the Portuguese report suggested, Real Madrid has also been linked with the player.
Interest in Inácio comes as no surprise given his impressive performances this season. The 23 year old has 91% passing and 67% passing in the league this season.
His performances in Europe have been impressive as well, with 89% passing and a whopping 80% passing. Furthermore, he has averaged 1.6 tackles per game, assisting his defence in the centre of the park. (Stats via Sofascore)
At €45 million, Inácio would surely make for a reasonable and promising signing, especially given his proven experience on the elite European stage while also having an existing working relationship with Amorim.
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Mathew Cohen
A faithful Manchester United supporter, Mathew has worked as a football writer and analyst for SB Nation, FanSided, and now The Peoples Person. Mathew’s heroes include David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sir Alex Ferguson, all of whom played their part in creating some special childhood memories.
