Not just Branthwaite – Man Utd to launch talks with ‘excellent’ £52m defender | OneFootball

Manchester United have reportedly joined their arch-rivals Liverpool in the race for Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio.

The Red Devils will be looking to address their defensive department in the summer, as Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system requires an additional number of centre-backs at Carrington.

The Premier League giants have already signed Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro last summer, while Ayden Heaven joined in January. But on the other hand, Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof are currently running on expiring contracts, while Lisandro Martinez might not be ready by the start of next season due to his ACL injury.

Hence, Man Utd are studying their options on the market. As reported earlier this week, they have been keeping close tabs on Jarrad Branthwaite, the 22-year-old Everton star whom they had already pursued last season.

Man United boss Ruben Amorim keen to reunite with Goncalo Inacio

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The Red Devils reportedly put £50 million on the table last summer, but were rejected by the Toffees. United will try their luck with a similar bid in the coming months, hoping this figure will prove sufficient this time around, with Everton slowly losing their leverage on the player’s future.

However, if United’s bid doesn’t unlock the transfer, Inacio could be a competent alternative, especially due to his old connection with Amorim who launched his career at Sporting. After all, the Portuguese has a release clause in his contract worth £52 million.

According to CaughtOffside, INEOS are preparing to hold talks with the 23-year-old defender who is also being linked with several other European giants, especially Liverpool and Manchester City.

Described as an ‘excellent defender’, Inacio has now cemented himself as a staple for both club and country.

This season, he has made 35 appearances for Sporting thus far in all competitions. He has also showcased his prowess on the other end of the pitch, as portrayed by five goals and three assists.