Liverpool continue their search for a new centre-back from last summer’s transfer window, with 32-year-old defender Joel Matip likely to leave the club at the end of the season, and are beginning to look to secure a replacement.
Sporting defender Goncalo Inácio is seen as a top target, along with Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo and Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly, who are available on free transfers.
The Portuguese defender, who has made over 150 appearances in total for the club through Liga Bewin and the Champions League, is believed to have a £51 million release clause attached to his new contract, which he signed in August 2023.
According to Football Insider, he could be available for less than this clause, with Liverpool likely to be able to lure him to Anfield for around £40 million. His club’s manager, Ruben Amorim, has also been linked with a move to Liverpool, and the left-footed centre-back may travel to England with his manager.
Liverpool, who have shown a desire to add a left-footed defender to their current backline among the key reinforcements in this summer’s transfer window, were also eyeing Chelsea defender Levi Colwill as recently as last summer.
As well as the former Schalke defender, Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk is also approaching 33 years of age and a generational change in the centre-backs must be addressed, making the 22-year-old Portuguese defender an ideal fit.
Can Liverpool succeed in acquiring the long-sought Sporting defender in this summer’s transfer window?