Barcelona consider Goncalo Inacio as defensive target amid Milan interest

Barcelona have added Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio to their list of potential targets as they search for a left-footed centre-back during the current transfer window.

The 24-year-old Portugal international was an unexpected substitute as Sporting CP beat Alverca 3-1 in the Portuguese league, prompting speculation in Portugal that his absence from the starting line-up could be linked to negotiations over a possible transfer.

According to Portuguese channel Now Canal, Barcelona are among the clubs interested in signing Inacio, alongside AC Milan. The defender had played the full 90 minutes in Sporting CP’s opening two matches of the season before being left out of the starting XI against Alverca.

His omission has fuelled suggestions that he could leave Sporting CP in the coming days.

AC Milan are regarded as the leading club linked with Inacio. Their manager, Ruben Amorim, previously coached Sporting CP and is keen to work with the defender again after moving to the Italian club.

However, Portuguese reports have not ruled out Barcelona entering the race. The Catalan club are assessing their options in defence amid uncertainty over the futures of Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde, after manager Hansi Flick left the door open to either player departing.

Spanish newspaper Sport has described Inacio as a potential surprise signing for Barcelona sporting director Deco.

Inacio fits the profile Barcelona are seeking because of his ability to play out from the back and carry the ball forward. He is also a naturally left-footed centre-back, a position where Barcelona currently have Gerard Martin as their only natural option.

The defender is not a new name on Barcelona’s recruitment list. The club have monitored his progress for several years as he has developed at Sporting CP.

Inacio remains under contract with Sporting CP until the summer of 2030, having extended his deal in December. His contract contains a €60m release clause.

He progressed to Sporting CP’s first team during the 2020-21 season and has since made 261 official appearances for the club. During that time, he has scored 24 goals and provided 15 assists.

Inacio has also played 31 matches in the UEFA Champions League across four editions of the competition.

His unexpected omission against Alverca has therefore increased attention on his situation, with both Barcelona and AC Milan monitoring developments. Sporting CP’s contract position gives the Portuguese club significant protection, but the €60m release clause provides a clearly defined route for any interested side prepared to meet it.