Sporting CP defender Gonçalo Inácio was unexpectedly on the bench against FC Alverca in the Portuguese league, firing off a series of rumors that a transfer is imminent. The identity of the buying club has not been revealed, and while most rumors point to AC Milan as potential buyers, others have linked FC Barcelona as the potential suitors.
Inácio is a left-footed defender who could slot in next to Pau Cubarsí. Barça loaned out Ronald Araujo and could be slightly light in the center-back position.
The 24-year-old was also in Portugal’s squad for this past FIFA World Cup, though he made no appearances for them in a round of 16 exit.
Adding fuel to the fire, Barcelona Sporting Director Deco was in Lisbon recently. Rumors said his target was Colombian striker Luis Javier Suárez, who also plays for Sporting. But could he have been for negotiating for Inácio instead?
It’s unknown beyond rumor at this time. Rúben Amorim’s presence at Milan has fed rumors that the defender is off to Italy. Amorim managed Inácio for four years at Sporting. But that alone is not ironclad. With time ticking in the transfer window, Barcelona are still looking to secure targets. Everyone knows signing a striker is the priority, but will we see movement on a defender soon?
