Man Utd eye ‘decisive’ Bruno Fernandes factor to thwart Barcelona to discounted Goncalo Inacio deal

Manchester United are getting plans in place to make a move for Sporting defender Goncalo Inacio with a crucial factor reportedly aiding the transfer.

United are chasing new recruits all across the pitch to help out new manager Erik ten Hag in his first season. Midfield is a key concern amid a flurry of exits, but so too is the club’s defence.

Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane are the senior pairing. However, Ten Hag is looking to add fresh depth and his own take on the team.

Ajax’s Jurrien Timber has led the way as Man Utd’s firmest defensive target so far. Still, reports last month claimed that United are ready to sign Portugal Under-21 international Inacio.

According to the latest from A Bola, though, the Red Devils could yet get a discount on the 20-year-old.

Previous reports claimed that Sporting will demand his €45million (£38million) release clause.

But the latest claim says that United could sign Inacio for €40million (£34million). That is the figure they were supposedly considering up front in their €45million deal interest.

However, with Man Utd keen on him, Barcelona have now entered the race for Inacio as they look for more defensive recruits.

Man Utd eye Inacio transfer advantage

Although, the Old Trafford club reckon their relationship with Inacio’s lead representative will help them secure the defender.

Miguel Pinho is in charge of talks over Inacio’s future and the agent had a major role in Bruno Fernandes’ move to United in January 2020.

The agent and Man Utd have subsequently built up a strong working relationship ahead of fresh talks for Inacio.

For now, though, A Bola insists that United’s interest in Inacio remains very much in its infancy.

But given they continue to investigate a deal, they will soon be in a position to make a move.

United need defensive recruits

Ten Hag needs to revamp his defence as part of his overhaul at Man Utd.

Maguire is the club captain and with him looking to prove himself after a season of poor form, he is unlikely to go anywhere.

Varane, who is entering his second season at United, has also not shown his best so far.

Behind the pair, though, Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly both arrived under Jose Mourinho’s tenure as manager.

Ten Hag needs to stamp his mark on the team with new defensive signings of his own.

United have a solid record of recruiting from Portugal and while Inacio is still only a young player, he is a solid prospect.