Inter Milan face Bastoni dilemma as Summer transfer scenarios emerge

Interest grows in modern defender as Nerazzurri consider options

The future of Alessandro Bastoni at Inter Milan is increasingly uncertain, with growing interest from top European clubs and the possibility of a major summer shake-up.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport via Fcinter1908, Bastoni perfectly embodies the modern defender, combining physical strength with technical quality and build-up play.

It is no surprise, therefore, that elite clubs such as Barcelona, Liverpool, Chelsea and Bayern Munich have all shown interest in recent months.

Inter Milan are no longer considering Bastoni untouchable. If a significant offer arrives, the club could seriously evaluate a sale, potentially using the funds to finance a broader squad rebuild. 

However, his departure would leave a major gap in defence and raise a crucial question: who replaces him?

Internal solution already available

The first option lies within the current squad. Carlos Augusto has already shown he can step into Bastoni’s role on the left side of a back three.

Initially signed as a backup for Federico Dimarco on the wing, Carlos Augusto has impressed whenever deployed in defence, whether centrally or even on the opposite flank.

His performances, including the recent match against Atalanta when Bastoni was unavailable, suggest that Inter Milan already possess a reliable internal alternative.

Market targets identified to replace Bastoni

Despite Carlos Augusto’s versatility, Inter Milan are also exploring external options.

One certainty is that Manuel Akanji will be signed permanently from Manchester City, but that alone would not be enough to reshape the defence.

Two key profiles are currently being monitored:

Tarik Muharemovic, a left-footed defender from Sassuolo, seen as a younger, raw version of Bastoni with strong physical and technical qualities

Oumar Solet, currently at Udinese, long admired for his versatility and ability to play out from the back

Both players fit the profile sought by Oaktree Capital Management: young, talented and with growth potential.

A tactical revolution on the horizon?

A third, more radical scenario could see a complete tactical shift.

Inter Milan have relied on a 3-5-2 system for nearly a decade, but coach Cristian Chivu has long favoured different structures, such as a 4-2-3-1 or a 4-3-3.

A move away from a back three could become more likely if Bastoni leaves, given his strong suitability to that system. 

In such a case, Inter Milan could line up with a four-man defence featuring players like Yann Bisseck and Akanji centrally, with Dimarco potentially dropping into a more traditional full-back role.

Uncertain future, inevitable change

Whether Bastoni stays or leaves, one thing is clear: Inter Milan’s defence is set for significant changes in the near future.

The summer transfer window could mark the beginning of a new era, both in personnel and tactical identity.