Premier League heavyweights Liverpool are reportedly planning a summer 2019 deal for Sporting CP star Goncalo Inacio, as reported by Spanish publication Fichajes (h/t the Liverpool Echo).

Inacio, a product of Sporting’s development program, made his professional debut in March, with Roberto Martinez as his manager. The 22-year-old defender is often considered as one of Europe’s brightest young stars.

His potential to mature into a first-rate defender makes him an important piece for the Reds’ future. Liverpool clearly needs defensive reinforcements, and the club lost a chance to acquire a top-tier center defender over the summer.

Goncalo Inacio, a great player for Sporting CP, has been linked to a summer move to Liverpool (Photo by FILIPE AMORIM/AFP via Getty Images).

The team currently counts on starters at center back Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk. ιnjury problems have plagued Joel Matip, who is far past his prime, while Joe Gomez has a similarly spotty track record.

The Portuguese midfielder Inacio would be a good addition to Jurgen Klopp’s squad because of the tactical versatility he would provide.

This youngster can fill in at left-back or central defense, thanks to his adaptability. He can play well in a 3 man or 4 man defense.

The Liverpool left-back spot is open, and the Sporting ace may be a great replacement for Andrew Robertson. The manager may decide to play him against a tough opponent to help the Reds’ defense.

Ivan Perisic of Tottenham Hotspur challenges Goncalo Inacio of Sporting Lisbon for possession of the ball. Illustration by CARLOS COSTA/AFP/Getty Images)

The report adds that the teenager can be had for around €30 million, making him a potential steаl for any interested club. Liverpool may make the defender an official offer in the near future, but how they choose to do so remаins to be seen.

Since Sporting is unlikely to want to shake up their roster in the middle of the season, a transfer in January may not be possible. As a result, Klopp’s squad may need to be patient and wait until the season’s finish to sign him.