Barcelona explore move for Sporting CP captain Goncalo Inacio

Barcelona sporting director Deco is exploring an unexpected move for Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio as the Catalan club considers strengthening its defence this summer.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Deco is planning an approach for the 24-year-old, despite the transfer market’s main focus currently being on Barcelona’s search for an out-and-out striker.

Inacio’s future has become the subject of increased speculation after he was surprisingly left on the bench for Sporting CP’s third Portuguese league match of the season against Alverca. The decision was made by manager Rui Borges and has been interpreted in Portugal as a possible indication that the defender could be set to leave the club.

In recent days, Inacio has been linked particularly with a move to AC Milan. That possibility has been strengthened by the presence of manager Ruben Amorim, who played an important role in the defender’s development and helped him establish himself at Sporting CP.

However, Portuguese media have not ruled out Barcelona as the club attempting to sign Inacio. Television channel Now Canal has gone further by reporting that a deal could be close.

Inacio’s contract contains a €60m release clause, a fee Barcelona could afford. Sporting CP are nevertheless understood to be reluctant to sell, having already allowed Morten Hjulmand to join Atletico de Madrid and Ousmane Diomande to move to Nottingham Forest this summer.

The defender’s unexpected omission from the starting line-up in the latest match could, however, suggest that Sporting CP’s position or planning is changing. Inacio is also the club captain, making his absence notable beyond the immediate selection decision.

Deco was in Lisbon this week, Sport reported, although the reason for his visit has not been established. His presence was initially connected with Colombia forward Luis Suarez, but Barcelona are not considering a move for Sporting CP striker Luis Suarez.

Instead, the club’s interest in Inacio would fit with a wider plan to recruit another defender who operates on the left side. Barcelona’s own plans in that area remain uncertain because of the lack of clarity surrounding Alejandro Balde’s future.

Signing Inacio would also create greater flexibility at left-back. Gerard Martin could be used in that position and compete with Joao Cancelo, while Inacio would provide an additional left-footed defensive option for Barcelona.

The Portugal international offers considerable experience despite his age and has continued to be regarded as one of Sporting CP’s leading players. His form has also earned him recognition from Portugal manager Roberto Martinez, who has selected him for the national team’s 2026 World Cup plans.

A move to Barcelona would therefore represent a significant change in direction for the Catalan club’s transfer strategy. While attention has centred on attacking reinforcements, Deco’s reported interest indicates that defensive recruitment remains a priority, with Inacio’s €60m release clause potentially offering a straightforward route to an agreement if Barcelona decide to proceed.