Key Takeaways:
- Barcelona have initiated discussions with Alessandro Bastoni’s representatives regarding a possible transfer
- Inter have begun the search for Bastoni’s successor, targeting Lazio’s Mario Gila, with additional options including Joel Ordonez, Oumar Solet, and Tarik Muharemovic
- Inter have set a price between €70-80m for Bastoni, despite previous reports suggesting an asking fee of €50-60m
Barcelona’s Defensive Target Takes Shape
Barcelona appear determined to strengthen both their central defence and attack during the upcoming transfer window, should their financial situation allow. Progress has been made this week in their efforts to secure a key defensive signing.
Director of Football Deco has reportedly identified Alessandro Bastoni as the primary candidate for the central defensive role. Bastoni had seemed set for a contract renewal at Inter earlier in the year, yet recent developments indicate that the Serie A club may now be open to sanctioning his sale for an appropriate fee.
🚨🔵🔴 Barcelona and Alessandro Bastoni’s camp are discussing personal terms and salary, as revealed.
Initial talks started days ago, no club to club discussions ongoing yet — it won’t be anytime soon.
Inter have not fixed a specific price tag yet.
🎥➕ https://t.co/GpSmSjPykI pic.twitter.com/q6NFMX21ti
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 29, 2026
Inter Ready Contingency Plans
Following reports that Barcelona have opened negotiations with Bastoni’s entourage over contract terms, further encouraging updates have emerged from Italy. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter have accelerated their search for a replacement should Bastoni depart this summer.
| Potential Inter Defensive Targets | Current Club |
|---|---|
| Mario Gila | Lazio |
| Joel Ordonez | Club Brugge |
| Oumar Solet | Udinese |
| Tarik Muharemovic | Sassuolo |
Lazio’s Mario Gila is believed to be Inter’s primary candidate, partly due to his high potential and Real Madrid’s 50% sell-on clause. Alternatively, more budget-friendly options under consideration include Joel Ordonez of Club Brugge, Oumar Solet of Udinese, and Tarik Muharemovic from Sassuolo.
Transfer Negotiations and Financial Obstacles
In recent weeks, speculation mounted that Inter could be willing to let Bastoni depart for a fee in the region of €50-60m, which would suit Barcelona’s financial constraints. However, Gazzetta dello Sport have corroborated Fabrizio Romano’s statements that the Italian club will only part ways with Bastoni for a figure between €70-80m.
Barcelona May Explore Player-Exchange Options
Amid concerns over their wage budget and transfer flexibility, Barcelona have reportedly considered structuring deals involving player swaps. Ferran Torres has emerged as a potential makeweight in negotiations for both Julian Alvarez and Bastoni, while Dani Olmo is thought to have attracted interest from Inter as well. The club may opt for such arrangements to satisfy salary limit requirements and progress multiple transfer objectives this summer.
