By Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

8th Oct, 2023 | 8:00am

Sources: Newcastle United now want to sign left-sided star in January

Newcastle United could reignite their pursuit of long-term defender target Goncalo Inacio in the January window, sources have told Football Insider.

The Magpies are in the market for centre-back reinforcements and key injuries between now and the new year could accelerate their transfer plans.

Newcastle would prefer to add a right-sided centre-back with their next marquee signing, but Sporting CP defender Inacio can play on both sides despite being left-footed.

Newcastle have admired his talents for a long time and could be set to make their move in 2024.

Football Insider revealed on Friday (6 October) that the Portuguese outfit are now resigned to losing the Man United and Liverpool target in the near future.

It is believed they are keen to keep hold of the defender until the next summer window as they eye triumph in the Portuguese top-flight.

However, Inacio has a £52million release clause in his contract which would leave Sporting powerless if it is activated.

The Portugal international has played every minute of all nine games for Sporting so far in the 2023-24 campaign.

Inacio scored a brace in his last international outing, a 9-0 demolition of Luxembourg in Euro 2024 qualifying last month.

He racked up 52 appearances across all competitions in the 2022-23 season, notching four goals and three assists.

Newcastle were forced to bring club captain Jamaal Lascelles into the side for the 4-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday (5 October) due to an injury to Sven Botman.

The star man is also expected to miss out on the clash against West Ham on Sunday (8 October).

In other news, Newcastle offering 25-year-old “big” pay hike as talks open.