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Man Utd one of only two 'real candidates' to sign incredible player for just £39m
Man Utd could seal a much-needed deal in the January transfer window.
Fulham 0-1 Man Utd: Match review
Manchester United are reportedly one of just two serious contenders to sign Sporting Lisbon star Goncalo Inacio in January. Reports in the Spanish media claim that the centre-back could be available for an upfront fee of just £39million in the winter, which could provide a boost to Erik ten Hag’s defensive woes.
Inacio has been widely linked with a move to the Premier League having shone in the Portuguese top-flight over the last few years. The 22-year-old has a £52m release clause but a payment plan could be put in place, the report claims.
United’s defensive woes this season could prompt them into a major January deal for a new defender. Inacio is reported to be a possible target for the Old Trafford outfit.
Sporting are understood to want a club to activate Inacio’s release clause but would reportedly accept a payment plan that would see them receive a smaller initial fee. It is claimed that a £39m offer could be enough to seal a January transfer, with the remaining £13m in add-ons.
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According to the report by Spanish publication AS, United are one of just two clubs who are seriously in contention to sign the Portugal international in the upcoming window. Real Madrid also harbour an interest and could be keen on a move.
Inacio was previously linked with Liverpool but the Reds are reportedly not as close to completing a deal as their north-west rivals. United’s woeful start to the Premier League season has prompted them into completing business in January, despite a £150m summer spree.
Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Fulham preserved Ten Hag’s job after successive 3-0 home defeats by Manchester City and Newcastle, respectively. However, weaknesses were still evident in the triumph at Craven Cottage, with defensive reinforcements necessary over the next few months.
Meanwhile, Ten Hag insists that his players are backing him despite reports of discontent inside the Old Trafford dressing room. Asked about his players’ support, the Dutchman said: "I knew that and we've seen it again. It's a good dressing room and they fight for each other. They know what the standards are.
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“At Manchester United, they have to win every game. That is the attitude you need when you play for this club."
"It was a solid performance," Ten Hag added. “I am pleased, especially with the spirit in the team.
"I was pleased with the way we pressed. Fulham play very decent football from the back but we never allowed them to play from the back. It's clear we have to create more in the box but the composure on the ball was a step up."