Sporting rejects Al-Ittihad’s proposal and insists on a €60 million release clause for Gonçalo Inácio
Portuguese club stands firm: the 24-year-old defender will only leave Lisbon if his full buyout clause is paid.
Saudis make inquiry, Sporting push back
Al-Ittihad, managed by Laurent Blanc, recently approached Sporting CP to sound out a possible deal for Gonçalo Inácio. The answer from Lisbon was immediate: the defender is non-negotiable unless the €60 million release clause (around $65 million) is triggered.
Club president Frederico Varandas and the Sporting board consider Inácio a key pillar of their current project and have no intention of accepting any bid below the established clause, even with the strong financial power of Saudi clubs.
Defender established for club and country
At just 24 years old, Inácio has already made over 200 appearances for Sporting and is now a regular for the Portuguese national team. This season, he has played every minute available, underlining his importance to Rúben Amorim’s defensive setup.
Praised for his ball-playing ability, tactical awareness, and leadership on the pitch, Inácio is among the most valued defenders in the Portuguese league. His profile has drawn interest not only from Saudi Arabia but also from top European clubs.
Firm stance despite open transfer window
With the Saudi transfer market still open until September 10, Sporting remain resolute. Sources close to the club confirm that the board is prepared to reject even multimillion-euro offers unless they match the release clause.
The strategy is clear: retaining starters is crucial to maintain domestic dominance and compete strongly in European competitions.
More than just a sporting decision
Sporting’s refusal to negotiate below €60 million is not only about sporting ambition but also a financial safeguard. Accepting a discount would risk devaluing the player as an asset and weaken the club’s position in future transfer talks.
For now, the message from Lisbon is firm: Gonçalo Inácio stays—unless the full clause is paid.
