UEFA Champions League
Gonçalo Inacio, a 25-year-old central defender from Sporting de Portugal, is once again a priority for AC Milan in the January 2027 market. As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ruben Amorim aims to bring back the Portuguese player after the Italian club attempted to sign him in the summer with an offer exceeding 40 million euros.
The deal did not materialize as Sporting did not find a replacement for the defender. Now, the Italian club is preparing a new approach, although Inacio is under contract until 2030 with a release clause of 60 million euros.
Gonçalo Inácio renewed his contract with Sporting until 2030. https://t.co/8cVLrBs4xs
— B24 (@B24PT) December 11, 2025
Gonçalo Inacio, AC Milan's Defensive Priority
The interest in Gonçalo Inacio is a request from Ruben Amorim, who knows the center-back from their time in Portuguese football. It was precisely the coach who gave him the opportunity to establish himself in Sporting's first team.
They worked together for several seasons, winning two Portuguese championships. This experience explains why the coach believes the defender can quickly adapt to his system, especially when using a back three.
The player stands out for his ball distribution and ability to start plays from deep positions. He is left-footed and can play as a left center-back, a position currently held by Strahinja Pavlovic in the Italian team.
However, there are aspects he needs to improve. His performance in aerial duels and certain individual marking situations raise doubts, especially when playing in a four-man defense.
Nevertheless, the coach maintains his interest and believes he can provide solutions in building play, a trait he is looking to reinforce in his squad.
Sporting de Portugal Might Accept a 40 Million Offer
The main challenge remains Sporting de Portugal's stance. The Lisbon club renewed the defender's contract in December 2025 until 2030, establishing him as one of their squad's key figures.
Following Morten Hjulmand's departure, Inacio also took on the captaincy. His sporting importance was evident at the start of the season, being a starter in all matches played by the team.
However, according to reports from Italy, the Portuguese club would be willing to consider offers close to 40 million euros, provided they find a replacement to maintain their defensive level. Ruben Amorim has requested his signing for Milan.
The player's stance could also be decisive. Inacio sees the opportunity to compete in Serie A favorably, especially if he can reunite with a coach who understands his qualities.

Ruben Amorim Prepares More Signings for January
The arrival of a defender is not the only move Ruben Amorim is considering. AC Milan also maintains interest in Endrick, a forward from Real Madrid, to bolster their attack through a potential loan.
The club's owner, Gerry Cardinale, aims to complete the squad during the winter market to enhance their chances of qualifying for the next Champions League.
However, the next step will be to see if Sporting finds a replacement in the coming weeks. This condition could facilitate negotiations for Gonçalo Inacio to end up in Milan in January 2027, although there is currently no definitive agreement.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Amorim pide al Milán el fichaje de Gonçalo Inacio
