Manchester United are apparently interested in Sporting Lisbon defender Goncalo Inacio, who has a £51 million release clause. 

The Red Devils intend to launch a bid for the 22-year-old defender in the near future.

Inacio has been called up by Roberto Martinez to Portugal’s Euro 2024 squad and has six caps for the country.

United are reportedly interested in acquiring the two-time Portuguese title winner, but Liverpool may pose a challenge.

According to Portuguese sources Record and O Jogo, United is considering a bid.

Manchester United are reportedly ready to make an offer for £51 million defender Goncalo Inacio.

The Sporting Lisbon centre-back, who also plays on the left, has drawn Liverpool’s eye.

It was widely rumoured that United had resolved to fire Ten Hag before of the FA Cup final, regardless of the outcome, but the Dutchman is still in charge after defeating Manchester City 2-1.

Since his promotion to Sporting’s first squad in the 2020-21 season, Inacio has won two Portuguese league titles, two Cups, and one Super Cup. 

He has also played left-back for Ruben Amorim’s side, which might add versatility to Manchester’s back line. 

In December, Arsenal reportedly expressed interest in him. He was one of five players who scored a penalty to eliminate them from the Europa League in 2022-23.  

After losing Raphael Varane, United will need to strengthen its centre-back position. 

Varane left Old Trafford at the end of the season after three years and 93 appearances, having joined from Real Madrid for £42 million.

United’s interest is thought to be unwavering, whether or not Erik ten Hag continues in charge.

Raphael Varane left United at the end of the season, when his contract expired after three years.

His connection with Lisandro Martinez is perhaps United’s strongest in recent seasons, and despite his age, he will be difficult to replace. 

Martinez, Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans, Victor Lindelof, and Willy Kambwala are Ten Hag’s current centre back options. 

Casemiro filled in at the conclusion of the season owing to an injury issue, but Saudi Arabian clubs Al-Nassr, Al-Ahli, and Al-Qadsiah are reportedly interested in signing him. 

All three teams were eager to offer him a richer contract than his £350,000-per-week salary at United, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s club Al-Nassr reportedly wanting to pay around £85 million. 

Following Joel Matip’s departure, Liverpool would like to add another central defender.