Liverpool face a major setback in their pursuit of one of the world’s most coveted centre-backs, as Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Alessandro Bastoni is now the subject of active transfer discussions with Barcelona.
The 26-year-old Italian international, widely regarded as one of Europe’s elite defenders, has long been linked with a move to Anfield as a long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk. Standing at 6ft 3in, Bastoni combines exceptional speed, commanding aerial presence, strong tackling, leadership qualities, and an impressive passing range. With 42 caps for Italy and a pivotal role in Inter Milan’s recent successes, he represents the complete modern centre-half package.
However, Romano’s latest update on his YouTube channel has delivered a significant blow to Liverpool’s hopes. Speaking about Barcelona’s interest, the renowned journalist stated: “For Barcelona, there are no doubts about the quality of Alessandro Bastoni as a player after what he’s shown with Inter Milan in recent years. For sure, Barcelona want Bastoni. For sure, Barcelona are in contact with Bastoni’s camp. Exchanges on the contract, the salary, have already started.”
Romano added a crucial caveat: while personal terms discussions are underway, Barcelona still do not know Inter’s exact asking price for the summer, and club-to-club negotiations have not yet begun. Reports in the Spanish media had previously suggested Barcelona were prepared to explore a swap deal involving players such as Ferran Torres and/or Dani Olmo to help land the Italian colossus.
Inter Milan Dig In: No Intention of Selling
Despite the growing interest from La Liga, Inter Milan appear far from willing to part ways with their prized asset. Sources indicate the Serie A leaders value Bastoni at upwards of €80m (£69m / $92.5m) — a figure that would stretch even well-resourced clubs and looks particularly challenging for Barcelona given their ongoing financial constraints.
TEAMtalk understands that Inter are growing increasingly confident of retaining Bastoni beyond this summer. The club is preparing to offer the defender a mega-money contract extension, potentially making him one of Serie A’s highest-paid players. The proposal would extend his current deal (which runs until summer 2028) by at least two more years, securing him at the San Siro until 2030.
Early signs suggest mutual interest in reaching an agreement. Bastoni has previously expressed his contentment at Inter, telling Italian TV last year: “Rumours about my future? These things make me proud; it means I’m doing well… I’m happy here, and I don’t have any problems… Will I stay at Inter? Probably yes.”
Inter have “no intention” of selling their pillar of the backline, viewing him as central to their continued ambitions.
Tough Road Ahead for Liverpool
For Liverpool, who are actively scouring the market for defensive reinforcements ahead of a new era, this development complicates their plans considerably. Any deal for Bastoni was always expected to be extremely difficult, and Barcelona’s head start in personal discussions — combined with Inter’s firm stance — suggests the race may be slipping away before it truly intensifies.
The Reds have been exploring other options, with recent reports highlighting interest in an RB Leipzig centre-back available for potentially less than his €80m release clause. That avenue now looks more realistic as a viable alternative.
Bastoni’s situation remains fluid until club-to-club talks formally open, but Romano’s confirmation of Barcelona’s concrete engagement with the player’s representatives marks a clear shift. Inter’s determination to tie him down with a new deal further reduces the likelihood of a summer departure.
Liverpool will need to move swiftly if they harbour any remaining hopes of prising the Italian away from San Siro — but as things stand, the path to signing their dream target has become significantly steeper. The summer transfer window promises to be one of the most intriguing in recent years, with Bastoni’s future at the heart of several high-profile battles.