AC Milan have shifted their focus to Sporting Lisbon defender Gonçalo Inacio after encountering difficulties in their pursuit of Benfica’s Antonio Silva, according to reports in Italy. The Rossoneri had initially identified Silva as a priority target, but negotiations have stalled due to Benfica’s firm stance and the player’s importance to coach Marco Silva’s plans.
Benfica are reportedly unwilling to negotiate a reduced fee for Silva, whose contract does not expire until 2027. While this could be a negotiating tactic, Milan are hesitant to prolong discussions and risk missing out on other targets. Owner Gerry Cardinale is keen to quickly secure key signings to provide new manager Paulo Fonseca with a solid foundation.
As a result, Milan are now prioritizing a move for Inacio, the 24-year-old centre-back at Sporting Lisbon. Fonseca is familiar with Inacio, having previously managed him at Sporting, where they won four titles together including two league championships. The pair enjoyed a successful four-season spell together, and Inacio is represented by the same agency as the Milan coach, potentially easing negotiations.
The Portuguese defender is valued around €40 million. Milan’s change in transfer strategy, demonstrated by the club-record signing of Lucas Romero, suggests they are now willing to make significant investments in individual players rather than spreading funds across multiple, less impactful signings. Inacio’s ability to play in both three and four-man defensive systems, coupled with his passing range, makes him an attractive option. Milan are also considering Lecce’s Tiago Gabriel as a potential second centre-back addition, with his transfer fee expected to be considerably lower than Inacio’s.
