soccer

Major setback for Barcelona as highly-rated Serie A defender prioritises staying at current club

Major setback for Barcelona as highly-rated Serie A defender prioritises staying at current club

It has been known for a while that Barcelona want to strengthen the heart of their defence with a long-term solution. 

Among the names admired internally, Alessandro Bastoni stands out as one of the most attractive profiles on the market.

It is said that the Italian defender fits perfectly into the type of centre-back Barcelona are searching for. 

In Hansi Flick’s tactical system, Bastoni’s composure on the ball, passing range and positional intelligence make him an ideal candidate on paper.

However, while his name continues to circulate inside Barcelona’s sporting department, the reality of completing such a transfer is extremely complex.

Move is extremely complex

According to reports from SPORT, Inter have no intention of parting ways with their defensive cornerstone. Bastoni is considered untouchable at the club. 

The only scenario in which Inter would even open discussions would involve a massive offer far beyond normal centre-back valuations.

Alessandro Bastoni does not want to leave Inter. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

For Barcelona, that presents a serious financial barrier. The club’s current economic framework does not allow for extravagant spending without first generating major income or freeing significant salary space. 

Yet money is not the only obstacle. Bastoni himself is fully committed to the Inter project. 

In fact, he has grown into a leader at the back at Inter. He is seen internally as a future captain and central figure in the club’s long-term plans.

Talks over a contract renewal, his current deal runs until 2028, are progressing positively. 

Both player and club appear aligned in extending that partnership even further. 

Bastoni has repeatedly spoken about his happiness in Milan and his desire to continue evolving there, leaving little indication that he is seeking a new challenge abroad.

Barcelona remain attentive. They view Bastoni as a dream target for when their financial position improves. But for now, the operation feels distant.

Read full story at Yahoo Sport →