Manchester United target Goncalo Inacio has ended speculation over his future by signing a new contract at Sporting Lisbon with an increased release clause.
The Portugal international has been heavily linked with the Red Devils over the past year. Earlier this summer, it was reported that Inacio was stalling over a new deal in anticipation of an offer from United.
He has now decided to commit his future to Sporting on a long-term deal. The centre-back previously had a release clause worth €45 million, but that has been increased to €60m with a fresh contract.
United should have considered Inacio transfer
The Red Devils currently have Lisandro Martinez as the only left-footed centre-back in the squad.
When he was unavailable or injured last season, manager Erik ten Hag chose to play left-back Luke Shaw from the role. In our view, the club should have prioritised a quality deputy for Martinez.
Inacio has shown that he has the attributes to become an elite defender. The left-footed ace is a strong ball-playing centre-back, who is good with his tackling and ability to clear his lines.
The 21-year-old has also excelled when it comes to winning duels. He won 60 per cent of his aerial challenges in the league last term. He also made his Portugal debut in March.
In our opinion, United should have considered an approach for Inacio earlier in the summer. They could have signed him for much less than his previous release clause of €45m.
Sporting have now succeeded in increasing the valuation to €60m. It is unlikely that United will sign him now unless they can recoup a significant amount through player sales.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
