Inter Milan Sets €70M Price Tag for Barcelona & Liverpool Target Alessandro Bastoni

Barcelona is actively seeking to sign a central defender this summer, and one of their primary targets may now be accessible. Inter Milan's defender, Alessandro Bastoni, was widely expected to extend his contract with the club, but recent reports suggest a change in the Nerazzurri's transfer plans.

The 26-year-old Bastoni was identified as a key target for Barcelona before the winter break. However, the Catalan giants were initially skeptical about their ability to secure a deal with Inter. While the Italian international had previously expressed interest in joining Barcelona, February reports indicated he would remain at Inter.

Inter Milan Demands €70 Million for Bastoni

Despite Bastoni being under contract until 2028, Inter Milan is reportedly re-evaluating its transfer strategy. Only Pio Esposito and Lautaro Martinez are considered entirely off-limits for transfers. Offers for all other players will be entertained, contingent on meeting the club's valuation. According to GdS, as relayed by Sport, Inter is looking for approximately €70 million to part ways with Bastoni.

Catalan media sources suggest that Bastoni is Barcelona's top priority for the defensive position, but the club is unwilling to overspend. A player-plus-cash deal is also being considered as a way to reduce the overall transfer fee. Furthermore, reports this week indicate that Barcelona believes it holds an advantage over Liverpool, who are also interested in the defender.

Barcelona's Transfer Strategy: A Potential Obstacle?

Barcelona has conveyed confidence in its capacity to execute a significant transfer this summer, yet their financial flexibility remains uncertain. Even if substantial funds are available for a high-profile signing, briefings from Catalonia indicate that a forward would likely be prioritized before a central defender. Consequently, the prospect of Barcelona spending €70 million on Bastoni, at the current time, appears doubtful.