Alessandro Bastoni (foto: Getty Images)
Barcelona targets Alessandro Bastoni but faces a price gap with Inter, who demand up to €90m for the Italian defender ahead of the summer transfer window.
Barcelona is stepping up plans to strengthen its defence, with Alessandro Bastoni identified as the priority target ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Inter centre-back, widely regarded as one of the top defenders in Europe, fits the profile the Catalan club wants, experienced, technically strong, and entering his prime at 26 years old.
However, the deal is far from straightforward. Inter is reportedly demanding between €80 million and €90 million, while Barcelona values the player significantly lower, in the range of €55 million to €65 million.
This gap remains the key obstacle. Barcelona’s financial limits mean any deal would require careful structuring, possibly including bonuses or player sales to balance the books.
Bastoni is under contract until 2028, which strengthens Inter’s negotiating position. The Italian club also invested around €30 million to sign him and now sees him as one of its most valuable assets.
Interest is not limited to Spain. Liverpool has also been linked with the defender, especially with uncertainty around their future tactical direction. A potential arrival of Xabi Alonso could increase that interest, given his preference for a system with three central defenders, a setup where Bastoni thrives.
Real Madrid is also monitoring defensive options, although current reports suggest they are prioritising more affordable alternatives.
As the transfer window approaches, Bastoni’s future will depend on whether Barcelona can close the financial gap, or if another European giant steps in with a stronger offer.