Barcelona eye Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni for Summer move

Barcelona are reportedly monitoring Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni ahead of the summer transfer window, with Deco and Hansi Flick convinced the Italian could strengthen the Catalan backline immediately

Alessandro Bastoni could become one of the hottest defensive names on the transfer market next summer. 

The FC Barcelona are reportedly keeping a close eye on the Inter Milan centre-back, with growing speculation about a possible move to Catalonia.

According to Spanish outlet Sport via Fcinter1908, Barcelona sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick both see Bastoni as an ideal reinforcement for their defensive line. 

The Catalan club believes the Italian international could make an immediate impact and is already working on the foundations of a potential deal.

Barcelona are also confident that the player would at least be open to listening to their proposal, especially after recent tensions surrounding Bastoni in Italy following controversial episodes during matches involving Inter Milan.

Barcelona have already sounded out Bastoni’s camp

Earlier this year, Deco reportedly met with the defender’s representatives to understand whether Bastoni would be willing to leave Inter Milan and consider a move to Spain. 

The initial talks are said to have been positive, encouraging Barcelona to continue exploring the possibility of a future agreement.

However, negotiating with Inter Milan will not be easy. The Italian club values Bastoni at over €80 million (£69 million, $92 million), a figure that would make him one of the most expensive defenders in Europe.

Barcelona’s strategy will likely involve trying to lower the asking price, but that could only happen if the player himself pushes for the move. 

Inter Milan are expected to offer Bastoni a contract renewal and improved terms in the coming months in an attempt to secure his long-term future in Milan.

For now, Barcelona have a clear roadmap and believe a deal could be achievable, although reaching a final agreement between all parties remains far from simple.