Liverpool’s summer rebuild is beginning to take shape following the departure of Arne Slot, with incoming boss Andoni Iraola facing several major decisions across the squad.
Much of the attention has understandably focused on strengthening the attack, but defensive reinforcements are also becoming a priority.
Ibrahima Konate is expected to complete a move to Real Madrid after failing to agree fresh terms at Anfield, leaving a significant gap in Liverpool’s back line.
Finding a suitable successor to the France international will not be easy, but the Reds appear to have already identified one of their leading targets.
Liverpool Want Inacio to Replace Konate
According to CaughtOffside, Liverpool remain keen on Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio as they step up plans for life after Konate.
The 24-year-old has established himself as one of Europe’s most highly-rated centre-backs and has already earned 21 senior caps for Portugal, underlining both his experience and pedigree despite his relatively young age.
Sources close to the agents industry suggest Inacio is firmly among the names being considered by Liverpool’s recruitment team, with the club accelerating its search for a new central defender following Konate’s expected departure.
However, Liverpool are unlikely to have a clear run at the Sporting star. Manchester United, Chelsea, Barcelona and Real Madrid have all been linked with the Portuguese international in recent months, highlighting just how highly regarded he is across Europe.
Inacio’s current contract includes a release clause worth around €60 million (£55 million), though reports suggest Sporting could be willing to negotiate below that figure if serious interest arrives this summer.
With Konate seemingly on his way out, Liverpool’s need for defensive reinforcements is becoming increasingly urgent, and Inacio looks set to remain near the top of their shortlist in the weeks ahead.
