Barcelona is reportedly closing in on a deal to sign a promising defender from Sporting Lisbon as the club looks to strengthen its backline.
As the summer transfer window nears its close on September 1, 2025, FC Barcelona is poised to make a late move to bolster its defensive line, prompted by recent concerns over its backline’s performance.
A 3-2 victory against Levante exposed vulnerabilities in their defense, pushing head coach Hansi Flick to prioritize reinforcements.
With the departure of a key defender to Al-Nassr, the Catalan giants are actively seeking a new centre-back to strengthen their squad and maintain their competitive edge in La Liga and beyond.
The target is Sporting Lisbon’s Goncalo Inacio, a Portugal international who has emerged as a prime candidate for Barcelona, according to Fichajes.
Inacio, a standout at 23, has impressed with 21 goals and 14 assists in 217 appearances for Sporting Lisbon, earning 16 caps for Portugal.
His ball-playing ability and composure align perfectly with Flick’s tactical philosophy, making him a reported favorite of the German coach.
While Nottingham Forest’s Murillo and RB Leipzig’s Castello Lukeba are also on Barcelona’s radar, Inacio’s availability and relatively affordable €45 million (£39m) price tag make him the frontrunner.
Barcelona’s defensive concerns stem from inconsistent performances by Ronald Araujo and Pau Cubarsi, with Flick expressing unease despite earlier confidence in versatile defender Gerard Martin.
The potential sale of midfielder Fermin Lopez, with Chelsea showing interest, could provide the financial flexibility needed to secure and register Inacio, addressing La Liga’s Financial Fair Play constraints.
This move would allow Flick to maintain squad depth without sacrificing key assets.
Although Manchester United and Liverpool have previously been linked with Inacio, neither is expected to pursue him in this window, giving Barcelona a clear path.
With Jules Kounde as another defensive option, Inacio’s arrival could solidify Barcelona’s backline, offering long-term stability.
As the transfer deadline looms, this potential signing underscores Flick’s commitment to building a robust squad capable of challenging for titles, with Inacio poised to be a cornerstone of their defensive future.
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