The task is all the more important given that Joel Matip is likely to leave the club in the summer when his current contract expires. Other targets include Chelsea’s Levi Collwi, but Inacio is expected to be snapped up by Liverpool after snubbing Newcastle this summer.
According to Portuguese publication OJogo, Inacio turned down offers from Eddie Howe to move to Real Madrid, Liverpool and Manchester United. Liverpool have already made contact with their agent but are unlikely to pay £52m this month and their key selection decisions will be reviewed in the summer. However, if a bidding war breaks out, the club could look for a cheaper target such as Ko Itakura, who could be even cheaper in the summer, as we reported this week. However, Inacio is a highly-rated target and could one day replace Virgil van Dijk at the heart of Liverpool’s defence. Klopp was looking for a left-footed centre-back in the summer and Inacio fits the bill both for his age and size. He is 6 feet tall and very athletic.His ball game is exceptional. Compared to Van Dijk, he averages more forward passes, more attempts, more forward carries and more shot attempts. However, his 0.6 commits per game is impressive, and his natural playmaking ability will be a great addition to the left lineup.
This summer will be an interesting season for Liverpool as a decision could be made regarding the centre-back. The emergence of Jarrel Quansah has put fans in doubt as Klopp has four senior centre-backs to rely on and has been sent to the academy. Sporting are top of the Portuguese league and are doing well in the cup competition and in the last 16 of the Europa League against Young Boys. A win for Liverpool could result in a draw, which would give the fans and Klopp a chance to see talent in action against Liverpool’s powerful attack.
Liverpool ‘target’ Goncalo Inacio has rejected a potential summer move from Newcastle United. Inacio, 22, has been an emerging talent in recent years and has built a solid reputation for club and country. He plays for Sporting, a modern centre-back with excellent defensive skills and a rising star. He has been identified as a potential target by The Athletic this summer as Liverpool look to build their future at centre-back.
