It appears that Liverpool and Real Madrid will engage in a significant transfer battle for a defender valued at £52 million after years of exhilarating on-field matches.
Jurgen Klopp’s Reds have returned to anything like their best defensive form after conceding nine goals in the Premier League so far.
Real Madrid has shown even more restraint by allowing just six goals in their nine La Liga games so far in 2023–24.
Given this, it is unclear why either would be looking for further defensive assistance given that it is clear that both are now well-resourced.
Teams can never have too many strong defenders, but it does not account for injuries or bans.
According to Defensa Central (via Sky Sports), Goncalo Inacio, a 22-year-old centre back for Sporting, is in demand from the two top teams in Spain and England.
With a €60 million (£51.8 million) release clause, he won’t be cheap, but in the current market, getting a top-tier centre back for less than £80 million must be seen as having longer-term worth.
Both sides have plenty of time to keep scouting Inacio because the winter window doesn’t open for another three months. If the player is as described in the stories, Messrs. Klopp and Ancelotti will need to be at the top of their game on January 1.
