Top Barcelona defensive target rejects contract offer from current club – report

Top Barcelona defensive target rejects contract offer from current club – report Barcelona have received an encouraging signal in their pursuit of Alessandro Bastoni, with Inter Milan struggling to convince the defender to commit his future to the Italian club. According to Sky Sports , Inter have submitted an initial contract renewal proposal to Bastoni’s representatives, but the offer has been deemed insufficient.  Notably, the development could create an opportunity for Barcelona, who have maintained contact with the centre-back’s camp and are considering another attempt to bring him to Catalonia. However, the 27-year-old is not prepared to make a decision without first understanding his role under Hansi Flick . Barcelona maintain contact with Bastoni’s camp Despite uncertainty surrounding the transfer in recent months, Barcelona have not abandoned their interest in the Italy international.  Bastoni has rejected Inter Milan’s contract proposal (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) Discussions with his representatives have continued, with the Catalan club recently reiterating their intention to prepare a fresh approach. Notably, Barça came close to securing an agreement last summer, with Bastoni prepared to sign a contract running until 2031. However, Flick decided against pursuing the operation, putting the transfer on hold. Interestingly, that decision did not end communication between the parties.  Bastoni’s camp has continued to regard Barcelona as a preferred destination should the defender decide to leave Inter, keeping the possibility of a future move alive. Bastoni wants assurances from Hansi Flick As stated before, although the Italian is open to joining Barcelona, he wants more than an agreement over personal terms.  Barcelona remain in talks with Bastoni’s representatives. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images) He would like to speak directly with Flick to understand the sporting project, his expected position in the team and whether the German coach considers him a priority. That conversation could prove important in understanding whether Barcelona can turn their long-standing interest into a concrete transfer.  For now, Barcelona are expected to hold further discussions with his representatives in the coming months. The next move for the Blaugrana is to negotiate with Inter if they want to make the transfer happen.  The Italian club reportedly values Bastoni at €70 million and are unwilling to consider his departure for less, and it is understandable considering their approach to renewing his current deal, which expires in 2028.