Barcelona’s defensive struggles this season have reignited the club’s search for reinforcements ahead of the next transfer window.
Hansi Flick’s side have lacked depth and balance at the back, especially on the left side, since the departure of Inigo Martinez.
Jules Kounde has been asked to cover multiple roles, while Pau Cubarsi have been overworked as part of Flick’s defensive reshuffle.
With fixtures coming thick and fast in both La Liga and Europe, the Catalans’ need for a composed, left-footed centre-back has become increasingly urgent.
Scouts have already been sent across Europe to identify realistic options capable of fitting into Barça’s evolving defensive structure.
One name that continues to dominate internal discussions is Goncalo Inacio.
According to SPORT, Sporting Lisbon are now taking active steps to extend Inacio’s contract until 2030 amid growing interest from Barcelona and several other major European clubs.
The report claims that the Portuguese side plan to raise his release clause from €60 million to €80 million — a move clearly designed to deter potential suitors.
Sporting view the 24-year-old as one of their most valuable assets and are determined to keep him in Lisbon for the foreseeable future.
Currently under contract until 2027, Goncalo Inacio remains a top target for Barcelona, who have been following his development for over a year.
The club’s hierarchy believes his passing range, positioning, and ability to play out from the back make him a natural fit for Flick’s system.
With Martinez gone, Inacio’s profile ticks every box the Catalans are looking for.
Barcelona, however, are wary of paying an inflated fee, especially with Financial Fair Play restrictions still in play.
The club’s directors are reportedly monitoring whether the defender’s situation could evolve — particularly if contract talks with Sporting stall.
The final decision now rests with Inacio himself.
The defender must choose between committing his long-term future to Sporting or testing himself abroad at one of Europe’s most demanding clubs.
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