Manchester United and Liverpool sniff around Portuguese gem

Liverpool’s Champions League hopes remain alive following their 1-0 win against Brentford at Anfield on Saturday.

Mohammed Salah’s goal gave Jurgen Klopp’s side victory, keeping their chances of finishing in the top four alive.

The Reds have now won their last six Premier League games and have remained undefeated in their last eight league games, a run which included a win against Tottenham Hotspur, a draw against Arsenal and a draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

The Merseyside outfit are now a point behind Manchester United, who occupy fourth place and the last Champions League spot.

However, United still have two games in hand which could mean that the gap potentially extends to seven points.

Liverpool therefore look set to miss out on the Champions League next season for the first time in seven years.

Jurgen Klopp is therefore determined to rebuild his side during the upcoming summer transfer window.

According to the Sunday Mirror, Manchester United and Liverpool have identified Sporting CP defender Gonçalo Inácio as a potential summer target.

The report claims that the Reds have enquired about signing the defender, whilst United have listed the defender as a potential replacement for Harry Maguire.

Inácio has been subject to interest from both Liverpool and Manchester United.

The centre-back entered the Sporting CP first team after rising through the youth ranks of the Portuguese giants.

The 21-year-old has made 48 appearances in all completions for Sporting this season, helping his side to keep 18 clean sheets.

Inácio has also scored three goals and has provided three assists for Ruben Amorim’s side this term.

The 21-year-old’s contract doesn’t expire until 2026, which puts the club in a commanding position during potential negotiations. 

It has been rumoured that Sporting are looking for around £45m for the defensive talent.