Liverpool have been linked with a move for Alessandro Bastoni for some time, but securing the Italian’s services for next season is proving more difficult than anticipated.
There is still uncertainty surrounding the centre-back position at Liverpool, with Ibrahima Konate yet to commit his future to the club. Even if he stays, another defender is on the shopping list. This is one of the best options you will find on the market.
Barcelona have been competing for Bastoni’s signature, and a fresh update from Spain suggests that’s the only route he is considering if he does leave Inter Milan this summer.
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Alessandro Bastoni only wants Barcelona despite Liverpool interest
The two biggest clubs in Spain love spoiling the transfer plans of the top Premier League clubs. The pull Real Madrid and Barcelona have is hard to compete with.
That’s the case again with Bastoni, who Mundo Deportivo claim will only leave Inter if the Catalan outfit come calling despite ‘persistent’ Liverpool interest. He apparently loves Barcelona, Flick and everything that comes with it.
The rumoured £89 million Liverpool were prepared to spend on Bastoni will need to be directed elsewhere.
Alessandro Bastoni during Bosnia & Herzegovina v Italy - FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs
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Liverpool are eyeing Nico Schlotterbeck too, though Madrid could be next to scupper the Reds’ plans as they consider going for the German.
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Virgil van Dijk has at least another season in him at Liverpool, so this isn’t as urgent as say a winger or a midfielder, but as we’ve been saying for months, it all hinges on Konate’s contract decision.
Liverpool can afford to wait before making centre-back decision
There isn’t a major rush to get this position filled. We don’t yet know what the defensive areas will look like come the start of next season.
There are reasons to accelerate pursuits of attackers who are on the radar of multiple top clubs, but patience might be better when it comes to sorting out the heart of the defence.
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Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes watching on during the Reds' Premier League match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge (Credit: Getty Images/Robin Jones).
Photo Credit: Getty Images/Robin Jones
Exactly the level of player we need to sign will be determined by what players are still at Anfield in August. Bastoni looks to be off the table anyway, so it will be interesting to see what the next name linked is.
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