Man Utd target highly-rated £60m defender as they look to rectify poor defensive record

Manchester United’s defence of the Carabao Cup ended in demoralising fashion as Erik Ten Hag’s men fell to a 3-0 home defeat against a much-changed Newcastle United side.

The defeat marks the Red Devil’s eighth defeat in 15 matches, which is their worst start to a season since 1962/63. That same campaign was the last time that Man Utd endured back-to-back home defeats by three or more goals, an unwanted feat that they also matched this term.

Pressure is quickly intensifying on Ten Hag to turn results around at Old Trafford and a crucial aspect that needs to be addressed is their shaky defensive record. Overall, Manchester United have conceded 16 goals in 10 Premier League games which is the worst record of any team inside the top eight.

That’s without counting the Champions League ties where they have conceded seven goals in three games.

One of the main targets in January for Ten Hag is likely to be a centre back, particularly one with excellent passing ability so that they can fully reap the benefits of the Andre Onana signing and play the ball out from the back.

Spanish outlet AS claims that one name on the Dutchman’s radar is Sporting Lisbon defender Goncalo Inancio.

The 22-year-old is an academy graduate who has been a regular fixture in Sporting lineup since 2020. In his first season in the Portuguese capital he lifted the league and cup double.

He went on to help the team defend the cup title the following year, whilst also establishing himself as one of the most coveted young footballers in the country.

Inancio is predominantly used in the centre back role but offers the versatility to be able to play as a right back. He is known for his excellent anticipation, composure and ball playing ability. This form has helped him establish himself as a full time Portuguese international with four caps and two goals.

Inancio has his fair share of admirers in Europe and AS adds that the Red Devils are not the only club interested in the player. Other potential suitors include Liverpool who are eyeing up a long-term successor to Virgil Van Dijk and Real Madrid who have built a habit of signing the best youngsters in European football.

The defender is reportedly valued at around £60m but this price could be increased if Man Utd are to enter a bidding war with other clubs.