Key Takeaways:
- Barcelona’s interest in Goncalo Inacio has increased in recent months amid defensive reshuffle following Inigo Martinez’s departure
- Sporting CP have begun discussions with Inacio to extend his contract to 2030 and increase his release clause from €60m to €80m
- Director of Football Deco is prioritising central defence as a major recruitment area for next summer
Barcelona’s Defensive Strategy Following Martinez Exit
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick expressed clear disappointment over the loss of Inigo Martinez this summer, after the key central defender chose to join Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr. While this move did alleviate some of the club’s wage bill, it also left a significant leadership vacuum in Flick’s defensive line.
The club did not immediately act to secure a replacement, opting instead to rely on existing centre-back options, which include Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia, Jules Kounde, and Pau Cubarsi. However, both Kounde and Araujo are favoured at right-back, and Christensen’s contract is set to expire next summer, leaving clear uncertainty for the position moving forward.
Barcelona are attentive to the centre-back market for potential future deals
Gonçalo Inácio is the most striking name about whom they have received information. Deco also met with his agency recently.
He has a contract with Sporting CP until 2027
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— Talking Sporting (@TalkingSporting) September 6, 2025
Goncalo Inacio Emerges as a Key Target
Barcelona’s Director of Football, Deco, is understood to be focused on securing reinforcements in two priority positions next summer, one of which is central defence. Recent reports from The Athletic have confirmed that Goncalo Inacio of Sporting CP has become a prominent name on their shortlist, with interest in the 24-year-old increasing notably in recent months.
Flick currently lacks a left-footed centre-back following Martinez’s departure, a trait he reportedly values highly. Inacio, who has earned 17 international caps and scored two goals for Portugal, fits this requirement precisely.
Sporting CP Move to Keep Hold of Inacio
Inacio is currently under contract with Sporting CP until 2027, a factor which could allow Barcelona to negotiate a more favourable fee. However, according to A Bola, Sporting have initiated talks with Inacio over a new contract that would extend his stay until 2030 and raise his release clause from €60m to €80m, in a clear attempt to deter potential suitors and secure his future at the club.
| Player | Age | Current Club | Contract Expiry | International Caps | International Goals | Current Release Clause | Proposed Release Clause |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goncalo Inacio | 24 | Sporting CP | 2027 | 17 | 2 | €60m | €80m |
European Recognition and Transfer Outlook
Inacio has previously attracted attention from leading European clubs, having been linked to both Liverpool and Real Madrid. After making his breakthrough at Sporting CP as a teenager, he has gained close to five years’ experience at top-flight level, further increasing his appeal as Barcelona search for a new defensive leader.
