Football expert Daniel Oliveira has issued a rather large statement regarding one of Manchester United’s defensive transfer targets in Goncalo Inácio.
What’s the word?
The 20-year-old Portugal starlet is one of the most sought after defenders in the world as we step ever closer towards the summer transfer window.
And according to a report from A Bola, as per The Sun, Manchester United are in the best position to sign the Sporting CP defender.
According to the report, Sporting will not consider any offer that is less than Inácio’s £38m release clause as the Red Devils prepare to launch a bid.
Better than Dias
Per playmakerstats.com, football expert Oliveira gave a statement that will have Manchester United fans ecstatic at the thought of signing Inacio this summer.
He was asked: “Man City’s Ruben Dias is an example of a Portuguese central defender who has thrived in the Premier League…can comparisons be made between Dias and Inácio?”
Oliveira replied: “It’s always difficult to compare players.
“One obvious difference is that Dias joined Manchester City when he was 23, so he was further along in his development than Inácio, who is still only 20.
Should United buy Inácio this summer?
Yes
No
“It is unlikely, therefore, that Inácio could have the same impact as Dias, who was crowned the Premier League’s best player at the end of his first season. Dias was always a natural leader and Inácio’s communication may be one area in which he can improve.
“Like I say, it’s hard to make comparisons. I’m 100% sure about one thing: the 20-year-old Inácio is a better player than Ruben Dias was at the same age.”
If he was to make the switch to the Premier League, 20-year-old Inácio would indeed be ahead of his compatriot, and senior by three years, Dias.
With similar defensive metrics to Maguire this season, the best move would see United buy the starlet and loan him back to Sporting for what would be another season of regular minutes, with the Portuguese featuring in 82% of Sporting’s domestic games this season.
Though, the majority of his metrics are surpassed by the Manchester City captain, especially in terms of possession, with Dias registering an average of 86.47 touches and 62.32 carries per game amidst his average completed passes total of 73.73 per 90.
Although these metrics are boosted as a direct result of Pep Guardiola’s high-possession philosophy, they are miles ahead of Inácio’s average of 51.27 touches, 32.14 carries and an average of 37.77 passes completed per game.
There is no doubt that Inacio is “underrated” in comparison to other defenders and would most certainly improve Manchester United in the long run, but taking a leaf out of Dias’ book and biding his time may be the best option for a 20-year-old centre-back entering one of the most physical and high profile leagues in the world.
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