Barcelona to return for Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni in January

Barcelona to return for Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni in January Barcelona are poised to revive their interest in Inter Milan centre-back Alessandro Bastoni ahead of the January transfer window, according to Mundo Deportivo . However, the Italian defender will want assurances from Hansi Flick before considering a move to the Spotify Camp Nou. Bastoni remains on sporting director Deco’s shortlist as the Catalan giants continue to search for defensive reinforcements just months after abandoning their previous pursuit. Barca identified an experienced, left-footed centre-back as a priority last January. Deco worked hard to secure an agreement with Bastoni until 2031, subject to Flick’s approval. However, the German coach decided against signing the 27-year-old Inter Milan star. Flick converted full-back Gerard Martin into a centre-back and chose to strengthen other areas of his squad. Five months later, Barcelona are back at square one, and Bastoni is again a leading candidate. The Italy international is open to listening if the Spanish champions make another approach, despite the disappointment he experienced when their previous move collapsed. Bastoni had been excited about the prospect of joining Barcelona and becoming part of their long-term project. Flick’s decision to overlook him was quite difficult to accept. But time has eased that disappointment, and the defender has not completely closed the door on a potential switch to Spain. He has continued to show why he is one of the best in the world at his position, winning 82 percent of his aerial duels and 50% of his ground duels in Serie A this term. However, a deal could be difficult for Barcelona to negotiate, given Bastoni’s position at Inter, where he is one of the club’s captains. He considers the San Siro his home and remains happy with life in Milan, having established himself as a key figure for one of his country’s leading clubs. He is under contract until 2028 and is one of Inter’s highest earners. Barcelona would need to present a very convincing sporting project to prise him away.