Inter Milan centre-back Alessandro Bastoni could still move to Barcelona this summer, though a deal is contingent on negotiations between the clubs following the Coppa Italia final, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Inter president Giuseppe Marotta has stated that Bastoni would need to request a transfer for it to occur, but discussions between the player’s representatives and Barcelona have been ongoing since December.
Barcelona are reportedly willing to pay between €45-50 million for Bastoni, however Inter are seeking a fee closer to €70 million. Romano notes that Barcelona also have alternative targets, including Evan Ndicka of AS Roma, should they fail to reach an agreement with Inter. Bastoni has been a key player for Inter, helping them secure the Serie A title, and has not yet indicated a desire to leave the club.
Romano also provided an update on Barcelona’s striker situation, linking it to the future of Robert Lewandowski. Lewandowski’s agent, Pini Zahavi, is currently in talks with several clubs, including AC Milan, Juventus, and teams in Major League Soccer and Saudi Arabia, regarding a potential one-year contract extension with reduced terms. A decision on Lewandowski’s future will significantly impact Barcelona’s plans for a new forward.
Despite interest from Barcelona, Chelsea are firm in their intention to retain Joao Pedro, viewing him as a crucial component of their project following a challenging season. Barcelona sporting director Deco is a long-time admirer of Pedro, but Chelsea are unwilling to sell. Atalanta midfielder Ederson is attracting interest from Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, after a previous agreement with Atletico Madrid stalled due to a disagreement over the €45 million asking price. Atletico are unwilling to meet Atalanta’s valuation for Ederson, who has one year remaining on his current contract.
Manchester United have included Ederson on a list of potential midfield targets, though he is not their top priority. Atalanta are holding firm on their €45 million asking price, despite the player’s contract situation, leaving the door open for further developments in the coming weeks.
