Barcelona's interest in Inter's Alessandro Bastoni confirmed, but no sale planned
Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni is the subject of serious interest from Barcelona, according to reports from Catalonia, though the Italian club currently has no intention of selling. The situation, widely reported by Barcelona-centric publication Mundo Deportivo, remains open as the season progresses, with the player's future likely to be decided in the coming months. While Bastoni is said to be flattered by the attention from the La Liga leaders, he has not asked to leave Inter, and the club's stance is that he is not for sale.
Inter's position was clarified by CEO Giuseppe Marotta, who stated that Bastoni is not on the market unless the player himself insists on a move or an irresistible offer arrives. Reports from Spain suggesting a valuation of around 50 million euros have been met with disbelief at Inter, who consider the 24-year-old a fundamental starter and a symbol of the team's recent successful cycle. Sources indicate the Nerazzurri would only consider sitting down for talks with a concrete offer starting in the region of 60-70 million euros.
The defender's recent experience adds a complex emotional layer to any potential transfer. Bastoni received a heartfelt standing ovation from the San Siro crowd during his substitution in Inter's recent match against Roma, a clear show of support from the club's fans. This contrasted with the whistles he has faced in some away stadiums in Italy, largely stemming from his perceived role in Italy's failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup. This psychological factor could influence his decision-making process in the months ahead.
Bastoni has previously shown loyalty to Inter, turning down significant opportunities in the past, including approaches linked to Pep Guardiola's Manchester City and lucrative offers from the Saudi Pro League. His career at Inter has been marked by growth into one of Europe's most composed left-sided centre-backs, crucial to the systems of both Simone Inzaghi and former manager Antonio Conte. The prospect of a new challenge at a club of Barcelona's stature, however, represents a unique lure.
For Barcelona, Bastoni fits the profile of a long-term defensive pillar, offering left-footed balance and elite ball-playing ability from the back. His potential acquisition would address a key area for the Catalan club as they build for the future. The coming weeks will be pivotal, as Inter's final league position and Champions League outcome, coupled with the evolution of Barcelona's financial capabilities, will determine if this interest transforms into a formal negotiation. For now, Bastoni remains a committed Inter player, with his future hinging on the convergence of club valuation, formal offers, and his personal desires.
