"I can't give any guarantees" – Sporting CP boss Rui Borges refuses to rule out imminent exit for Barcelona and AC Milan target Goncalo Inacio

Following Sporting CP's 3-1 victory over Alverca on Saturday, head coach Borges dismissed claims that leaving Inacio out of the team was directly tied to an imminent transfer away from Portugal.

The manager insisted that his tactical decisions governed the lineup changes, though he was realistic about the market environment. According to O Jogo, Borges stated: "I changed three defensive players. The changes were made for technical reasons, based on everything I observed during the week."

However, when pressed on whether Inacio would remain, Borges added: "I can't give any guarantees, not about Inacio or anyone else. Inacio didn't play for technical reasons, purely for match strategy. I can't guarantee anyone's permanence, because all the players have a release clause."

Milan have identified Inacio as one of their primary defensive targets for the final stage of the transfer window. The Italian club are eager to bolster their backline and view the defender as an ideal addition. The player is well known to Ruben Amorim, who previously managed him at Sporting CP before taking charge at San Siro.

The Serie A giants have reportedly been exploring potential structures for a deal, aware that the defender's contract includes a €60m release clause. While Sporting CP would prefer to keep their prized asset, the willingness of Milan to test their resolve could force movement before the transfer deadline.

Reports also surfaced linking Barcelona with a potential swoop for Inacio, given their desire for a left-footed centre-back. However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has shut down claims that any deal between the Spanish giants and the defender is close or agreed.

While the Catalan side appreciate the profile of Inacio, their financial constraints make a €60m deal highly improbable at this late stage. Consequently, rumors suggesting that the defender was dropped specifically to facilitate a move to Camp Nou have been largely played down by sources close to the situation, leaving the Italian suitors in a far stronger position to negotiate.

With the transfer window draw to a close, all eyes remain on Milan's next move regarding Inacio's €60m release clause. However, Barcelona sporting director Deco could yet trigger a major surprise from Portugal, with reports suggesting the Catalan side maintain an interest in bolstering their defense with the 24-year-old. Whether the defender heads to San Siro or Camp Nou, a late summer saga looks set to unfold.