In a recent report, A Bola (via Sport Witness) stated that Newcastle United remain keen on Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio this summer. It has been claimed that the Magpies have identified the Portuguese centre-back as a target for the summer transfer window.
Inacio’s Impressive Run Of Form In Portuguese Football
Inacio is having a solid season at the Portuguese club as he has put in a series of impressive displays at the heart of Sporting’s defence. The 22-year-old has scored four goals and grabbed one assist in 38 matches for the Portuguese outfit this season across all competitions.
The Almada-born talent has been a reliable performer when defending inside his half based on his average of 1.3 tackles, 0.9 interceptions and 1.8 clearances per 90 minutes in Liga Portugal. He has even been tidy when distributing the ball from the back after making 88.3% of his attempted passes in the Portuguese top tier (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at Sporting CP will expire in the summer of 2027 which could make it difficult for the Magpies to sign him on the cheap at the end of this campaign.
Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Get Inacio On Board?
Inacio is a tough-tackling defender who can make a few timely interceptions for his side when he is playing well on the defensive end of the field. He doesn’t hesitate to clear the danger when the opposition are on the front foot and can even play his way out from the back.
We can expect Inacio to add more quality and depth to Newcastle’s defence. He has what it takes to help the Magpies compete across all fronts in the coming years. The Portuguese defensive ace is good enough to fight for a regular starting spot at the Tyneside club.
Thus, it makes sense for Howe to try and get Inacio on board when the transfer window commences later this summer. However, Newcastle would have to be patient with his progress before they can unlock the best out of the player as he might need some time to adjust to life in the Premier League.
At 22, Inacio has the potential to become a world-class player in his position someday. Therefore, he would be a good choice for the Magpies to pursue in the long run.
