Man United scouting £50m wildcard as INEOS deliver on their latest promise

Manchester United are scouting a £50 million-rated centre-back ahead of the summer transfer window.

United concluded the 2023/24 season with a triumphant FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, but their eighth-place finish in the Premier League left much to be desired.

Erik ten Hag’s future remains uncertain as INEOS looks to bolster the squad this summer, whether for the Dutchman or a new manager.

A key area needing reinforcement is central defence, especially following Raphaël Varane’s departure.

Reports indicate that Jarrad Branthwaite is the top target for this position, with United hoping that Everton will lower their £60-80 million asking price.

However, Fabrizio Romano has since come out and suggested that there is another name to keep an eye on ahead of the transfer market.

The Italian reporter has claimed that Goncalo Inacio is a player that United appreciate and they have sent scouts to watch the Sporting Lisbon defender in recent months.

He further clarified that the Portuguese centre-back has a release clause in the region of £50 million.

Meanwhile, United have received further good news after The Times confirmed that UEFA will allow both OGC Nice and United to compete in the Europa League next season.

There were prior reports which explained that the Reds would be the club dropping into the Europa Conference League if the matter was not resolved due to their respective league finishes.

INEOS claimed that they were ‘confident’ they would overcome the potential hurdle, and they appear to have done so. They will have much tougher challenges as the summer heats up, though.