Even though Manchester United leased Axel Tuanzebe to Stoke City and Eric Bailly to Olympique Marseille last summer, there are still too many center backs in the first squad for them to handle.

Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, and Victor Lindelöf were all added to the defense last summer with the acquisition of Lisandro Martnez from Ajax, but Erik ten Hag has been connected to another center-back in Gonçalo Inácio.

The highly regarded 21-year-old moved to Sporting Lisbon from Almada Formaço in 2012, and since breaking into the first squad in 2020 after progressing through the youth ranks, he has made 109 appearances across all competitions.

Since Erik ten Hag is seeking for a left-footed defender and has employed Luke Shaw in that position rather than relying on Maguire or Lindelof, United has been rumored to sign Inacio.

Whether United were truly considering a move was clarified by Fabrizio Romano. He said to CaughtOffside.com: “I’ve been asked about Manchester United pursuing Goncalo Inacio a few times recently.

“He has been tracked by numerous clubs for a very long time. He has incredible talent and is among the top young left-footed center backs in Europe, in my opinion. Although I am not currently aware of any definite plans, he would be a top signing for any club.

Inacio reportedly has a €45 million (£39.6 million) release clause, so he wouldn’t break the bank. Yet, if the Portuguese U21 international were to join, at least one current player would have to be let go.

After sliding down the ladder this season, Maguire’s future is questionable. He has only made five league starts and has spent more time on the bench than on the field.

Although Lindelof is a capable backup to Varane, he has only started five times in the top flight so far this season. He also prefers to play on the right side of the defense.

It will be interesting to see if the Red Devils make a move because Ten Hag is allegedly a big Inacio supporter.