Manchester United scouts attended Sporting CP’s 6-0 win over AVS Futebol SAD in April 2026 to monitor primary defensive target Gonçalo Inácio and wing-back Maxi Araújo, as the club accelerates its recruitment drive under Ruben Amorim. Reporting from Goal indicates Amorim has specifically requested the signing of Inácio, a 24-year-old left-footed centre-back who possesses a €60 million (£52 million) release clause. Simultaneously, United are tracking Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, 23, who has emerged as a high-value alternative following a standout season in the Premier League. According to FootballTransfers, Anderson is internally regarded as a “Rolls-Royce” talent with a valuation reaching as high as €140 million.
The Sporting connection under Ruben Amorim
The presence of United officials in Lisbon highlights a clear strategic alignment with Amorim’s tactical requirements. Inácio is viewed as a critical component for a 3-4-3 system, providing the natural left-sided balance that has been missing during frequent injury spells for Lisandro Martínez. Gazzetta dello Sport describes Inácio as the “jewel” of the Sporting squad and the premier central defender outside of Europe’s traditional top five leagues. His current contract, signed in August 2023, runs until 2027, but the fixed nature of his release clause makes him a more straightforward acquisition than many Premier League alternatives. United also watched Araújo score twice during the 6-0 rout, addressing a clear need for high-output wing-backs.
Elliot Anderson’s rapid market ascent
While the Sporting targets represent a reunion for Amorim, the pursuit of Anderson signals a move for one of the Premier League’s most improved technical profiles. Since moving from Newcastle to Nottingham Forest for £35 million in 2024, the midfielder has developed into a dominant ball-carrier. While the reported €140 million valuation remains uncorroborated by broader UK outlets, it reflects a surge in market standing after a season where he has anchored Forest’s midfield transition. This interest comes as United look to modernise their engine room with younger, more durable options. The focus on both Inácio and Anderson suggests the United hierarchy is prioritising technical proficiency and pace to navigate the physical demands of Amorim’s high-pressing style.
United are expected to formalise their interest in Inácio ahead of the summer window, while any move for Anderson would require significant negotiation with Forest to lower the total package fee.