Serie A defensive heavyweight faces major future decision amid Barcelona interest – report

Serie A defensive heavyweight faces major future decision amid Barcelona interest – report Barcelona could have a more favourable opportunity to sign Alessandro Bastoni next summer, with Inter Milan facing an important decision over the defender’s future.  According to SPORT , the Italian club has begun preliminary discussions over a contract extension but could consider selling the centre-back for less than their previous valuation if he refuses to renew. It must be remembered that Bastoni is one of Barcelona’s preferred defensive targets , but Inter’s earlier demands of approximately €80 million proved too expensive last summer.  However, with his current contract expiring in 2028, the coming months could significantly influence the financial conditions of a future transfer. Inter push for renewal as Bastoni approaches contract crossroads Inter have initiated preliminary contact with Bastoni’s representatives to discuss extending his stay at San Siro. However, negotiations remain at an early stage, with no agreement close to completion. As per the outlet, the 27-year-old currently earns around €6 million annually and has two years remaining on his existing agreement.  Inter Milan are facing a serious question regarding Bastoni’s future. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) By January, however, he will enter the final 18 months of his contract, which will certainly strengthen his negotiating position with the Serie A side. Barcelona could benefit from Inter’s changing valuation Notably, Barcelona explored a move for Bastoni during the previous summer window but were discouraged by Inter’s demands , which reportedly reached €80 million.  Despite that failed attempt, the Catalans have not abandoned their interest, with contacts involving the defender’s representatives reportedly remaining open. For now, Inter could accept a substantially lower fee next summer if Bastoni does not commit to a new contract.  The logic is that selling the defender in 2027 would allow the Nerazzurri to recover a transfer fee, whereas keeping him until his contract expires in 2028 would risk losing him without compensation. For now, no revised asking price has been confirmed, but the possibility of a reduced valuation could make the deal more realistic for Barcelona. Bastoni’s decision could determine Barcelona’s next move Bastoni would be open to joining Barcelona. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images) As reported before, Bastoni is attracted by the possibility of playing for Barcelona, although his priority is understanding the sporting project and the role Hansi Flick would offer him. That consideration matters because Bastoni is an established starter at Inter, not a player looking simply for a change of scenery.  He would need confidence that moving to Spain would be a genuine sporting progression. For Barcelona, a profile like Bastoni — a left-footed centre-back with his experience and build-up ability — would address an important defensive requirement.  However, the club needs to establish whether Flick fully supports the signing and whether the financial conditions are manageable.