Moretto Mercato Battle Continues as Como Pursue Milan’s No.1 Defensive Target Inacio

FolioPitch.com – 01 July 2026 | The Moretto Mercato battle continues as Como pursue Milan’s No.1 defensive target Inacio, with both Lombardy clubs locked in a tense transfer tug-of-war. According to renowned transfer expert Matteo Moretto, AC Milan have identified Sporting CP’s Goncalo Inacio as their primary defensive reinforcement, but surprise contenders Como have now entered the fray, threatening to hijack the deal.

In a video published on Fabrizio Romano’s YouTube channel, Moretto confirmed that Inacio remains Milan’s top priority for the backline. ‘Gonçalo Inacio is certainly one of the first names AC Milan are pursuing to strengthen their defence, but it’s still a costly move financially. Sporting value him at more than €40 million, and Milan are aware of all the costs and difficulties involved,’ said Moretto. However, he added a twist: ‘Another Italian club has inquired about Gonçalo Inacio in the last few hours: Como, who are looking for a top-class centre-back and have conducted an enquiry.’

This is not the first time this summer that Milan and Como have clashed in the transfer market. Earlier, the two clubs battled over former Milan youth product Mattia Liberali, with Como leading the race to sign him from Catanzaro for €3 million, despite Milan’s late hijack attempt. Additionally, Gianluca Di Marzio revealed that Como were keen on signing Goncalo Ramos from Paris Saint-Germain as their new centre-forward, but Milan’s financial package—backed by Gerry Cardinale—secured the striker without much resistance.

Now, the Moretto Mercato battle continues as Como pursue Milan’s No.1 defensive target Inacio, adding another layer of drama to the summer window. The Portuguese defender, 22, has been a rock for Sporting CP, attracting interest from several European giants. His release clause is set at €60 million, but Sporting may negotiate closer to €40-45 million. Milan view him as a long-term partner for Fikayo Tomori, while Como see him as a statement signing under Cesc Fabregas.

Como’s sudden rise as a transfer market player cannot be ignored. With ambitious ownership and Fabregas’s vision, the newly promoted side is flexing its financial muscle. However, Milan remain confident in their ability to land Inacio, given their Champions League status and historical pull.

Meanwhile, the Moretto Mercato battle continues as Como pursue Milan’s No.1 defensive target Inacio, with negotiations expected to intensify in the coming days. Sporting CP are in no rush to sell, but the player’s desire for a move could accelerate talks. Milan are preparing an opening bid of around €35 million plus add-ons, while Como are reportedly ready to match Sporting’s €40 million valuation.

Both clubs are also monitoring other defensive options. Milan have considered Juventus’s Bremer and Torino’s Alessandro Buongiorno as alternatives, but Inacio remains the priority. Como, on the other hand, have also sounded out Sevilla’s Loic Bade and Bayern Munich’s Tanguy Nianzou.

In conclusion, the Moretto Mercato battle continues as Como pursue Milan’s No.1 defensive target Inacio, a saga that epitomizes the increasingly competitive nature of Serie A transfers. While Milan hold the edge in terms of reputation and European football, Como’s financial resources and Fabregas’s allure cannot be underestimated. The outcome will likely hinge on Inacio’s personal preference and Sporting’s willingness to do business. One thing is certain: this is a story that will dominate headlines until a resolution is reached.