Barcelona have made a move for Sporting CP centre-back Gonçalo Inácio, according to Goal. Gerard Romero reported that Inácio is on a Barcelona shortlist to strengthen the defence alongside RB Leipzig centre-back Castello Lukeba.
The reported interest emerged after Sporting manager Rui Borges left Inácio on the bench for the full 90 minutes of the club’s league match against Alverca at the Alvalade.
Why Sporting Left Their Captain Out
According to Portuguese broadcaster Now Canal, Borges’ decision was linked to a transfer that could be completed within hours. Maxi Araujo wore the captain’s armband for the match.
Inácio, a Portuguese defender born in 2001, came through Sporting’s ranks and has played for the club since 2020. The report said he could be close to leaving the club amid the transfer interest.
Sporting have already sold Morten Hjulmand to Atletico Madrid and Ousmane Diomandé to Nottingham Forest. The club are not thought to be willing to allow Inácio to leave easily, despite a €60 million release clause in his renewed contract.
Milan and Amorim’s Interest
AC Milan have long had Inácio on their radar, according to the report. Ruben Amorim, who previously coached the defender at Sporting, is also said to regard him as his preferred target as he seeks another centre-back.
The report described the coming hours as potentially decisive for the 25-year-old’s future, with Sporting’s position and the release clause likely to remain central to any potential move.
Barcelona’s Reported Move
Barcelona’s interest was reported alongside the club’s monitoring of Lukeba. Deco was in Lisbon the day before the Alverca match and was believed to have met Inácio’s representatives, including Miguel Pinho, the head of the AS1 agency.
For Barcelona, Inácio’s inclusion on the reported shortlist places him among the defensive options being considered as the club look to strengthen the back line. No formal Barcelona offer was detailed in the report.
What Happens Next
Inácio’s omission against Alverca and the report of a possible imminent transfer have put his situation in focus. Sporting’s reluctance to sell, Milan’s long-standing interest, Amorim’s reported preference and Barcelona’s move mean the next developments around the defender will be closely watched.
