Liverpool stance on Goncalo Inacio transfer with $65m release clause in play

Liverpool has been linked with a move for Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio. The centre-back has caught the eye of several top clubs in Lisbon and also has a release clause of around $65m (£51m/€60m) in his contract.

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There have been claims of the Reds 'monitoring' the defender with Manchester United also said to be keen. But This is Anfield has reported that Liverpool does not have the 22-year-old on its shortlist of potential defensive targets.

The youngster has become a mainstay of the defense in Lisbon since being introduced to the first-team in 2020. He's played over 100 league games in the Portuguese top flight and his performances have undoubtedly attracted transfer interest.

But it appears that Liverpool is not one of those interested parties. Instead, reports suggest Liverpool is being used to help generate interest in the player, who could well be on the move this summer if a club meets his release clause.

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The left-footed centre-back has previously been praised for his versatility by manager Ruben Amorim, who was linked with Liverpool before Arne Slot was appointed as their new manager.

"I imagine Inacio, that's why we've been doing this work since pre-season," Amorim told O Jogo when Inacio played in midfield. "Because I think he has good characteristics for that, he plays well in the middle and can form the defensive line."

It is not the first time Inacio has been linked with Liverpool. Reports in Portugal in January suggested he had rejected advances from Newcastle United because he was 'waiting' for Liverpool or another top club to make a move.

While he might not get that opportunity from Anfield this summer, he could well still get a big move elsewhere with Manchester United the main club being linked with signing him.

Liverpool.com says: Inacio is clearly a top talent, and it would be no surprise if Liverpool did have some interest. But agents and clubs using a club like Liverpool to enhance the profile of their client or player and, ultimately, get a better deal elsewhere is nothing knew. It appears that might be the case in this scenario.