Arsenal eyes £51m defensive boost

In a bid to reinforce their defensive lineup, Arsenal is gearing up for a potential £51 million signing of Sporting CP’s standout centre-back, Goncalo Inacio, in support of manager Mikel Arteta.

Since making his first-team debut in 2020, the 22-year-old Inacio has proven himself as a crucial asset at the heart of Sporting’s defense. Despite Liverpool’s recent interest in the talented player, Arsenal appears to be intensifying their pursuit of the Portuguese international, aiming to secure his services ahead of their Premier League rivals.

According to reports from Portuguese newspaper A Bola, Arsenal is actively “tightening their siege” on Inacio, being well aware of the €60 million (£51.5m) release clause embedded in the player’s contract with Sporting. The Gunners are reportedly prepared to meet this release clause, signaling their intent to bring Inacio to the Emirates Stadium during the upcoming January transfer window.