Some big claims have emerged from Portugal on Monday night, linking Newcastle United with a big-money move for Sporting Lisbon centre-back Gonçalo Inácio.
Portuguese newspaper Record report that Newcastle have identified the versatile defender as a ‘priority target’ ahead of the summer transfer window after long-term interest.
They claim that Newcastle ‘delayed’ pursuing the 22-year-old in January due to Financial Fair Play restrictions, but will reignite their interest this summer and remain hopeful of landing the defender despite his €60m release clause.
Lisbon believe they are at ‘serious risk’ of losing the Portuguese international, with he and Ousmane Diomande – another Sporting star being tracked by Toon scouts – expected to depart.
Inácio’s ability to play at left-back and at centre-back will surely appeal, as he could not only provide an upgrade on Dan Burn but also fill in for Sven Botman, who is facing six to nine months on the sidelines ahead of ACL surgery this week.
