Manchester United scouts were monitoring Goncalo Inacio during Sporting Lisbon’s 2-1 win over Vizela on Friday night, according to O Jogo (page 12).
The 21-year-old is regarded as one of the best young centre-backs in European football and he has been regularly linked with a move to Old Trafford.
It is now claimed by O Jogo that United have been watching the Portuguese for ‘a long time’ and they were keeping tabs on him against Vizela yesterday.
Inacio bagged the equaliser in the victory on the road and it is reported that United could lodge an approach for his services during the summer.
Man Utd have Kim Min-jae as top priority
United currently have Kim Min-jae as their top priority to bolster the central defensive department.
The South Korean has reportedly given the green light for a summer transfer. He could come in as a replacement for Harry Maguire ahead of next season.
In our opinion, it seems unlikely that United will consider a move for Inacio but the situation could change if Victor Lindelof pushes for a move elsewhere.
Lindelof has seen plenty of game time in recent months amid injuries to Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez but could become a regular on the bench next term.
If the Swede were to push for the exit door, United could bring in Inacio. The left-footed star could be seen as Martinez’s deputy for the left centre-back role.
Inacio has completed 90 per cent of his passes this term with an average of 1.2 tackles, 1.4 interceptions and 1.9 clearances. He has won nearly four duels per outing.
The Portuguese would be a quality acquisition with his strong ball-playing ability but he may not be a priority for United unless they sell a second centre-back.
Inacio currently has a release clause worth €45 million in his contract.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
