Newcastle United are reportedly keen on signing Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio.
The Portuguese, 21, one of the most highly-rated young centre-backs in world football, has put in some impressive performances over the past 18 months for Sporting CP. He is on the radar of multiple clubs from across Europe, with Liverpool keen on having him in their ranks. However, it won’t be easy for Liverpool to acquire his services as Newcastle United are also interested.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle United are considering a potential summer move for Goncalo Inacio, as Eddie Howe looks to beef up his squad ahead of a gruelling 2023/24 campaign.
Having come through the youth ranks at Sporting CP, Inacio made his first team debut back in the summer of 2020 and he hasn’t looked back since. Despite being just 21, the Portuguese international has already made 122 appearances for their first team, with 52 of those coming during the last season.
The left-footed defender signed a fresh four-year contract last year, keeping him at the Jose Alvalade Stadium until 2026.
Goncalo Inacio to Newcastle United—Right move?
Newcastle United had an excellent 2022-23 season, where they finished fourth in the Premier League and managed to secure Champions League football for the upcoming campaign. Eddie Howe is now looking to build on it by signing quality players needed to be competitive in both domestic and European competitions.
The Toon Army have already signed Sandro Tonali from AC Milan and are now looking to push for defensive reinforcements. Eddie Howe has Dan Burn, Fabian Schar, Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles as his current centre-back options at his disposal, but with Lascelles expected to leave this summer, the Newcastle boss wants to potentially replace him with Goncalo Inacio.
At 21, Inacio fits the profile of players Newcastle are looking to add under Eddie Howe. He is a talented, young defender who can play on either side of a centre-back pairing – as well as at full-back. The Portuguese was in great form this past campaign, registering four goals and three assists in 52 appearances across all competitions.
Howe is seeking more defensive stability next season and Inacio’s addition can help his cause. The 21-year-old has been a key player for Sporting CP over the last two years, and he would be a quality long-term acquisition for Newcastle. The Portuguese would improve the Magpies’ defence tremendously, whilst bringing much-needed European experience to the squad.
Inacio has a €45 million release clause in his contract, and considering his age, quality and versatility, as well as the current inflated market, it would be a bargain for Newcastle if they decide to trigger it.
