Real Madrid star’s ACL injury could ruin Manchester United’s plans to sign £52m star

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It’s not only Manchester United struggling to break free of an injury crisis threatening to derail their season.

During the 4-1 weekend hammering of Villarreal, David Alaba became the third Real Madrid player to have his campaign ended by an ACL injury, the Austria international joining Eder Militao and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois as long-term absentees.

And, while Carlo Ancelotti must now limp along without arguably his first-choice centre-back pairing, news of Alaba’s long-term absence poses it’s share of challenges for Erik ten Hag too.

According to Spanish publication AS, Real Madrid are likely to step up their pursuit of a defensive addition in January now. And it just so happens that three of their leading targets – Benfica’s Antonio Silva, Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini and particularly Goncalo Inacio of Sporting Lisbon – are also high on Manchester United’s wishlist.

Goncalo Inacio prefers Real Madrid to Manchester United

Inacio, a stylish, left-footed centre-half who has struck up a fine understanding with Bruno Fernandes in the Portuguese national team, reportedly prefers the Santiago Bernabeu over a move to Old Trafford. And he is unlikely to find himself beyond Real’s financial means.

The teenager has a £52 million release clause in his contract. But, AS add, Sporting may be willing to accept an initial £40 million. The other £12 million would be paid in ‘easily-achieved incentivised add-ons’.

Inacio, due to his southpaw status, feels like the most natural Alaba replacement too.

Portuguese star is a Red Devils target

“Goncalo Inacio is a very important player at Sporting,” former Porto, Braga and Olympiakos man Jose Sousa tells Sport TV.

“Inacio has been scoring goals. That’s why the player’s name has been talked about by several European clubs. And why 60 million euros is a bargain.”

“Just remember what Manchester United spent on central defenders,” Sousa adds. “For me, Goncalo Inacio is better (than all of them).”

Some statement. Especially given Raphael Varane’s pedigree and the stellar performances of Lisandro Martinez since reuniting with Erik ten Hag at United.

But if Inacio really is holding out for Real Madrid, then news of Alaba’s long-term absence is a problem not only for Los Blancos boss Ancelotti but also for a Man United side crying out for some much-needed additions at the back.