Liverpool and Manchester United are scouting Sporting Lisbon centre-back Goncalo Inacio ahead of the January transfer window.
Inacio is a transfer target for the Premier League clubs as each look to reinforce their defensive options in the winter window. Liverpool were keen on signing a left-sided central defender last summer and were linked with Micky van de Ven before the Dutchman’s move from Wolfsburg to Tottenham.
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Portuguese outlet A Bola are reporting that Liverpool are keeping a close eye on the performances of Sporting centre-back Inacio, who has shone since breaking into the Lisbon side.
The 22-year-old led Portugal’s Primeira Liga for passes into the final third and successful take-on percentage (85%) last season, while he was among the division’s leading names for progressive carrying distance (2nd), progressive passes (2nd) and touches (3rd).
Manchester United are also said to be keen on the defender, who made his senior debut for Portugal in March and has scored twice in four appearances for the national team.
Lisandro Martinez’s injury issues and Harry Maguire’s uncertain future at the club have led to the Red Devils scouting left-sided defenders and Inacio is on the club’s radar.
Inacio signed a new long-term contract at Sporting Lisbon in August which increased his release clause to a figure of around €60m.
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