Arne Slot decides ‘incredible’ £52m title-winner is Liverpool’s priority target this summer

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Newly-appointed Liverpool manager Arne Slot has now decided his priority transfer target at Anfield in order to strengthen for next season.

Slot arrived on Merseyside inheriting an incredibly well put together squad, one that Jurgen Klopp has just revamped.

With an exodus of midfielders last summer, Klopp welcomed the likes of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai to the club, a significant transition.

And before Klopp announced his departure, many felt that he would continue his squad overhaul this summer, aiming to revamp his defence.

Andrew Robertson is now 30-years-old and endured an injury hit 2023/24 season.

Virgil van Dijk’s long-term future still appears somewhat uncertain, given the 33-year-old now only has one-year left on his deal.

Although Jarell Quansah’s start in the first team has been promising, Joel Matip’s departure will require a new addition.

And to that end, Caught Offside are now detailing that Liverpool have decided to make Sporting CP’s Goncalo Inacio their ‘priority’ target this summer.

22-year-old Inacio made two appearances for Portugal at Euro 2024 and appears to be on the shortlist of several top clubs this summer.

Liverpool believe they could achieve cut-price deal for Portugal star Goncalo Inacio

According to the report mentioned, Liverpool are currently making progress in negotiations for Inacio, who could serve as a Van Dijk replacement.

The information insists that there is some ‘uncertainty’ around Anfield surrounding Van Dijk’s future, and as a result a move for Inacio is now Liverpool’s priority. 

Inacio’s release clause is around €60m (£52m) but Liverpool believe that Sporting could compromise on that fee eventually.

Interestingly, Inacio is a left-footed centre-back, who has even appeared as left-back and defensive midfielder whilst playing in Portugal.

And the ‘incredible’ talent would therefore be well placed to be Van Dijk’s successor, whenever his replacement will be needed.

It would appear very unlikely that the Dutchman would leave before his contract expired, but for now it seems as if the Liverpool captain is keeping his options open for a year’s time.

Fortunately, Alisson looks likely to snub Al-Nassr’s interest to stay at Liverpool – an important moment for Slot.

Caoimhin Kelleher is already agitating to become number one at the club, and Liverpool may also need to replace Adrian if Vitezslav Jaros heads out on loan for another season.