Manchester United are aiming to bolster their centre-back positions this summer, and Goncalo Inacio is one of the names being mentioned.

In 2017, Manchester United looked to the Portuguese league for a centre-back, signing Victor Lindelof from Benfica.

This summer is believed to be Lindelof’s last at United, and the club may attempt to sign a player from the league where he previously played.

Goncalo Inacio, a Sporting centre-back, has been linked with United for the past two years.

Goncalo Inacio’s release clause

Goncalo Inacio was a regular for Sporting, which won the Portuguese league title last season, 10 points ahead of their nearest opponents.

The 22-year-old centre-back appeared in 49 appearances across all competitions for Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo’s previous club, scoring four goals.

Goncalo Inacio’s Sporting contract includes a release clause worth 60 million Euros, which equals to £51 million.

Ongoing Manchester United links with Goncalo Inacio

Manchester United were first linked with Goncalo Inacio in May 2022, according to Portuguese publication Correia da Manha.

He made his Sporting debut in October 2020 at the age of 19 under manager Ruben Amorim, and he has played an important role in the manager’s success at the club.

Inacio has won two league titles and two Portuguese cups for the club, making a total of 171 appearances.

He made his Portugal debut late last year, in October 2023, and has since won eight caps, including a spot on the club’s Euro 2024 team.

United have been connected with Inacio for the past two seasons. Last week, Fabrizio Romano stated on YouTube that if the club looks for a left-footed centre-back, the Sporting defender will be toward the top of the list.

Sporting is anticipated to hold out for Inacio’s release clause. He’s under contract until 2028, and they won’t want to upset in-demand CEO Amorim by selling their stars if they can avoid it.