Barcelona are considering a January move for Inter Milan centre-back Alessandro Bastoni and have maintained contact with his representatives, according to Sky Sport journalist Sacha Tavolieri.
The 27-year-old is reportedly open to joining Barcelona, who view him as a key defensive target. Inter, however, value Bastoni at around €70m and are under no pressure to sell, with his contract running until June 2028.
Bastoni open to Barcelona after failed summer move
Tavolieri reports that Barcelona's interest in Bastoni dates back to the summer, when a proposed transfer collapsed despite the defender reportedly agreeing personal terms on a contract until 2031.
Sporting director Deco had pushed for the signing, but Hansi Flick did not approve the move.
Bastoni is still willing to consider joining Barcelona and reportedly sees the Catalan club as his preferred destination if he leaves Inter. However, he wants to speak directly with Flick first to understand the role he would have in the squad.
Inter’s €70m demand and contract leverage
Inter’s position remains firm. Tavolieri reports that the club would demand around €70m to consider selling Bastoni, despite preferring to keep him.
Inter have also made an initial contract extension offer, but his representatives reportedly consider the proposal insufficient. His current deal runs until 2028, having been extended in July 2023.
Bastoni’s importance to Inter is reflected in his 300 appearances for the club, a milestone he reached during their 1–0 Serie A win over Cagliari on 30 August. He has also started nine league matches this season, scoring once.
Meeting Inter’s valuation could prove difficult for Barcelona. The original report suggests a January move may depend on the club raising funds through a player sale, with left-back Alejandro Balde mentioned as a possible option.
However, this remains an unconfirmed route. For now, Barcelona's interest has not developed into an advanced transfer.
No bid or agreement with Inter has been reported, while Bastoni's desire to speak with Flick means the coach's plans for him remain an important factor in any potential move.
