Release clause claim over Newcastle United and Manchester United target as Magpies ‘bid’ is rejected

Newcastle United have been reportedly been told they will have to activate a release clause to sign Sporting Lisbon’s highly-rated defender Goncalo Inacio.

The 20-year-old centre-back has forged a fearsome reputation since breaking into the Sporting first-team just over a year ago and his form has attracted interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs.

The likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, AC Milan and Manchester United have all been linked with a move for Inacio after he showed his class with a number of consistant performances in the Primeira Liga and Champions League.

His displays earned praise from Sporting coach Ruben Anorim during last season as he assessed the defender’s attribute in and out of possession.

He said: "Inacio can play on one side and then come back in, making it unpredictable for our opposition so we have been making some good use of his characteristics.

“Inacio is very fast as well, offers long passing, can play inside and can even get to the top of the pitch before other players, giving [Pedro] Porro more freedom.”

Newcastle were first linked with a move for Inacio during the January transfer window when the likes of Sevilla centre-back Diego Carlos, Lille star Sven Botman and Brighton and Hove Albion’s Dan Burn were all considered to improve Eddie Howe’s defensive options.

Botman and Burn are now part of the Magpies squad and will compete for a place in Howe’s starting lineup with club captain Jamaal Lascelles and the ever-improving Fabian Schar.

Despite having four centre-backs in their ranks and Paul Dummett’s ability to play in the heart of the defence, Newcastle have still been linked with a move for Inacio and were said to have had a £28million bid rejected earlier this summer.

Portuguese outlet Correio da Manha have claimed the Magpies remain interested in the Portugal Under-21 star but Sporting have now insisted they must meet a release clause of £38.3million to secure the signature of one of European football’s most promising defenders.