Barcelona target Inter's Alessandro Bastoni as priority defensive signing

Barcelona have identified Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni as their primary target to strengthen their backline this summer, according to reports from Sport. The Catalan club's sporting director Deco is leading efforts to secure the 26-year-old Italy international, viewed as an ideal fit for Hansi Flick's defensive rebuild following a season of inconsistent performances.

Inter are reportedly willing to entertain offers for their starting centre-back despite his importance to Simone Inzaghi's side. Barcelona's hierarchy, including newly appointed head coach Flick, believe Bastoni's left-footed profile and technical qualities make him a natural successor to Iñigo Martínez, who departed for Al-Nassr last August.

Negotiations are expected to progress cautiously, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that Inter have not yet established a formal asking price. Industry sources suggest the Serie A club could demand between €70-80m for the defender, a figure that would test Barcelona's financial limits given their current non-compliance with La Liga's 1:1 spending rule.

The Spanish giants aim to agree personal terms with Bastoni before formalizing their approach to Inter. Barcelona's ability to complete the deal may hinge on resolving their financial restrictions through player sales or other economic levers before the transfer window closes. Bastoni has made 35 appearances for Inter this season, helping them maintain the second-best defensive record in Serie A while contributing three assists.