Manchester United are eyeing up a summer move for Sporting Lisbon defender Goncalo Inacio.

The Lowdown: Inacio profiled

The 20-year-old Portuguese starlet is primarily a centre-back but can also line out at left-back when required.

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Under contract until 2026, Inacio has been hailed as ‘underrated’ by journalist Zach Lowy and has made 69 senior appearances for Sporting Lisbon.

The Portugal under-21 international has been a regular for his club during the current campaign and has even weighed in with five goals in all competitions.

The Latest: Man United interest in Inacio

Sport Witness relayed a transfer update from Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manha regarding Inacio and Manchester United.

They claimed that the Red Devils have tracked the defender for ‘some time’ and that their interest is now ‘real’ ahead of the summer transfer window.

Inacio’s price tag is ‘simple’ - a €45m (£38m) release clause, with Newcastle United also name-checked in the report in a potential two-way battle.

The Verdict: United need him

A major shake-up is needed under Erik ten Hag this summer, and following United's humiliating 4-0 defeat to Brighton on Saturday evening, defensive reinforcements certainly seem to be required.

Inacio could be a shrewd prospective addition in both the short and long-term due to his versatility, age and impressive displays this season.

The centre-back is clearly comfortable on the ball, with a passing completion rate of 91.1% in the current Portuguese top-flight campaign, while he also tops Sporting’s ranks when it comes to clearances made per 90. [WhoScored]

A £38m swoop would also be in United’s price range, and you’d like to think the club could fund a deal for Inacio by offloading a few players this summer.

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