Barcelona target Bastoni as key defensive reinforcement for the summer

The Inter Milan defender remains one of the Catalan club’s top transfer objectives ahead of the next window

Barcelona’s top priority for the upcoming summer transfer window is clear: strengthening their defensive line.

With Araújo dealing with personal issues and Christensen expected to leave the club in June, the Catalans are searching for a defender with very specific characteristics: a left-footed centre-back who can also play as a full-back, comfortable on the ball, experienced but not too old, accustomed to high-level matches, eager to take another step forward in his career, and whose contract situation would allow Barcelona to assess a suitable offer.

A profile that perfectly matches that description is Alessandro Bastoni.

Bastoni at the Top of Barcelona’s Wishlist

According to Mundo Deportivo via Fcinter1908, the Inter Milan defender remains at the very top of Barcelona’s list of targets. 

Bastoni is under contract until June 30, 2028, but the Spanish daily points out that next summer could be the final ideal opportunity to secure a contract extension. Otherwise, Inter Milan could look to maximize revenue from a potential sale.

At present, Barcelona do not comply with La Liga’s salary cap regulations, but the prospect of returning to spending without major restrictions in the near future is far from remote. 

Should that scenario materialize, the Catalan club could arrive at Inter Milan’s headquarters with a very substantial offer.

Inter Milan’s valuation of Bastoni is clear: €80 million (£68.8 million) would be required to open negotiations.

Alternatives on Barcelona’s radar

In the meantime, Barcelona are also evaluating other defensive profiles. At a similar level of appreciation is Joško Gvardiol, a regular starter at Manchester City, who could consider a move in the summer should Pep Guardiola leave the club. His valuation stands at €70 million (£60.2 million).

More affordable alternatives include Nico Schlotterbeck and Pau Torres, while Marc Guéhi and Ibrahima Konaté are not considered superior to Eric Garcia. 

Not to be overlooked is Gerard Martín, a product of Barcelona’s academy who has been performing well even when deployed as a central defender.