Barcelona Eyes Gonçalo Inácio as Transfer Buzz Intensifies

Barcelona Eyes Gonçalo Inácio as Transfer Buzz Intensifies

Barcelona has set its sights on Gonçalo Inácio, the centre-back from Sporting CP, as reported by Goal. The interest comes after Gerard Romero revealed that Inácio is on a shortlist aimed at bolstering Barcelona's defense, which also includes Castello Lukeba from RB Leipzig. This reported interest follows a surprising decision by Sporting manager Rui Borges, who left Inácio on the bench for the entire 90 minutes during the club's league match against Alverca at the Alvalade. Reasons Behind Inácio's Omission Borges’ choice is linked to a potential transfer that could occur imminently. Maxi Araujo captained the team in Inácio's absence. Inácio, born in 2001, has been with Sporting since 2020, rising through the ranks. The report suggests that he could soon leave the club, especially after Sporting already sold Morten Hjulmand to Atletico Madrid and Ousmane Diomandé to Nottingham Forest. Despite a €60 million release clause in his renewed contract, Sporting is not keen on letting Inácio go easily. Interest from AC Milan AC Milan has also been tracking Inácio, with Ruben Amorim, his former coach at Sporting, identifying him as a key target for another centre-back. Barcelona's Strategic Move Barcelona’s interest aligns with their ongoing evaluation of defensive options, including Lukeba. Deco was reportedly in Lisbon the day before the Alverca match and is believed to have met with Inácio’s representatives, including Miguel Pinho, head of the AS1 agency. Next Steps Inácio's absence from the game and the swirling rumors about a transfer have heightened attention on his future. With Sporting's reluctance to sell, Milan’s interest, Amorim’s preference, and Barcelona’s pursuit, the coming hours are critical for the 25-year-old defender.

Source: Football España - 2026-08-24