Liverpool transfer news: Goncalo Inacio will cost FULL £50m clause after Arne Slot talks

Arne Slot has talked with Liverpool and requested a defender. The Reds now have a new player sitting at the top of their shortlist.

O Jogo in Portugal claims Liverpool will struggle to sign Goncalo Inacio. The young Sporting defender is one of the brightest young talents around, having been a key player in their title win last season at just 22.

That has seen Inacio linked with an exit all year long. In fact, rumours of Liverpool’s interest surfaced strongly last February, back when it seemed Sporting boss Ruben Amorim could move to Anfield.

That was a natural link, of course, but it seems Arne Slot is a fan, too. The Dutchman has apparently told Liverpool that he wants a centre-back after Joel Matip’s exit this summer, according to other reports.

And that’s before we talk about Virgil van Dijk’s recent comments on his future...

But the Reds wouldn’t have it easy to get Inacio. Sporting don’t want to sell and would demand his full release clause this summer. That sits around £50m.

Instead, they’re more open to negotiation around Ousamane Diomande - another impressive young defender at the club. Liverpool have been linked with him, too, though not for a few months now.

Liverpool look at Inacio

If there are any doubts over Van Dijk’s future, Liverpool have to sign a top defender. Inacio isn’t quite at that level yet but could be very soon.

But there are strong arguments that the Reds should sign Van Dijk’s replacement even if the Dutchman stays at the club. Inacio could be another player learning under the captain with a view to taking over his role down the line.

He’s certainly got the ability as a fantastic on-ball centre-back - exactly the type Slot would want in defence. If he truly is ‘the one’, then £50m doesn’t feel too steep.

So let’s see where this goes.