After failing to persuade Chelsea defender Levi Colwill last summer, Liverpool have been in pursuit of a left-footed centre-back all season. The defender, who also doubles as a left-back, has been the main focus and interest in a number of centre-backs has been rumoured.
One of these is 22-year-old defender Gonçalo Inácio, who plays for Sporting. He has made a total of 173 appearances for the Portuguese club, and has also experienced the biggest stages, such as the Champions League and Europa League. He has also made 11 appearances for his country’s full national team and has shown steady development.
According to O Jogo, Liverpool are expected to be serious about signing the young defender, who continues to attract interest, and will hold talks with the player’s agent, Miguel Pinho, in the next few days.
Manchester United were also interested in the Portuguese defender, but a £51 million release clause is attached to his contract. However, it has been reported that his club is expected to agree to a price reduction and could be at the negotiating table for around £38 million.
With Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk entering the veteran age bracket at 33, a search for his replacement is inevitable. In addition, a left-footed defender, who is not present in the current centre-back corps, could be a valuable asset.
He is the type of centre-back who is also good on his feet and can score goals, so he can adapt to Arne Slot’s style of play. If he can be acquired for £38 million, he would be a relatively bargain.
So, with the transfer market deadline looming, will Liverpool give the Portugal international centre-back the white feather…?