Fabrizio Romano debunks rumours linking 24-year-old Portuguese defender to Barcelona

Barcelona has dismissed speculation linking 24-year-old Portuguese defender Goncalo Inacio to a potential move away from the club. According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, there are currently "zero" ongoing negotiations between Barcelona and Inacio. The Catalan club has denied that an operation is underway to sign the player, who plays for Sporting CP.

Barcelona's decision not to pursue Inacio is similar to their previous stance on signing Argentine defender Cristian Romero, as both coaches, Xavi Flick and Ernesto Valverde, are not convinced of the benefits of making a move. Inacio, while a reliable central defender in Portugal, would face a steep learning curve to adapt to Barcelona's level of play.

The club remains open to transfer business, with around a week remaining until the transfer deadline. They are interested in potential reinforcements, including left-back Alejandro Balde. If Balde leaves, Barcelona will need to find a new left-back, and coach Ernesto Valverde may consider players with both central defender and left-back experience, such as Deco.