Manchester United are said to be one of just two genuine suitors for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Goncalo Inacio in January. According to Spanish media, the centre-back could be available for an upfront cost of just £39 million in the winter, which could help Erik ten Hag’s defensive troubles.

Inacio has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League after excelling in the Portuguese top flight in recent years. According to the report, the 22-year-old has a £52 million release clause, but a payment plan might be put in place.

United’s defensive troubles this season may force them to make a big January signing. The Old Trafford club is said to be interested in Inacio.

Sporting is said to desire a team to activate Inacio’s release clause, but would accept a payment plan that would result in a lower initial sum. According to reports, a £39 million offer could be enough to secure a January transfer, with the remaining £13 million in add-ons.

According to the Spanish magazine AS, United is one of just two clubs truly interested in signing the Portugal international in the forthcoming transfer season. Real Madrid is also interested and could make a move.

Inacio had previously been connected with Liverpool, but the Reds are not said to be as close to completing a deal as their north-west rivals. Despite a £150 million summer spending binge, United’s poor start to the Premier League season has driven them to complete business in January.

Ten Hag’s career was saved by a 1-0 victory over Fulham on Saturday, following 3-0 home losses to Manchester City and Newcastle. However, flaws were still visible in the victory at Craven Cottage, necessitating defensive reinforcements in the coming months.

Meanwhile, despite tales of unhappiness within the Old Trafford dressing room, Ten Hag swears that his players are behind him, the Dutchman said: “I knew that and we’ve seen it again. It’s a good dressing room and they fight for each other. They know what the standards are. At Manchester United, they have to win every game. That is the attitude you need when you play for this club.”

“It was a solid performance, I am pleased, especially with the spirit in the team,” Ten Hag added.