The 24-year-old Portugal international has a €60 million release clause in his contract, which runs until 2030, but Burgos reported that Sporting are open to a negotiated exit below that figure given the scale of interest and the player's own desire for a significant next step in his career.
Liverpool's interest has been building since mid-April, prompted by Inácio's Champions League performances in the 2025/26 season. The left-footed centre-back made 11 appearances in the competition, contributing a header in Sporting's 5-0 win over Bodø/Glimt that secured their place in the quarter-finals, where they were eliminated by Arsenal.
Ibrahima Konaté remains in contract negotiations with the club, while Van Dijk, who signed a new deal last year, is approaching the latter stages of his Liverpool career. The club's technical department are understood to view Inácio as the defensive profile they want to build around for the next phase.
The competition for his signature is significant. Chelsea have emerged as strong contenders, with Real Madrid and Barcelona both described by Gazzetta dello Sport as willing to do whatever it takes to sign him. Manchester United are also in the picture.
Inácio has scored one goal and contributed three assists in 26 Primeira Liga appearances this season, operating as the left-sided centre-back in a back four. He is regarded by analysts as one of the most complete defenders outside Europe's top five leagues — composure in possession, aggressive in the press and reliable under aerial duress.
His release clause of €60 million represents a cost that, relative to the current market for elite central defenders, is considered by multiple clubs to be extremely competitive.
Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes is expected to make central defence a priority in the summer window.