Barcelona's pursuit of Alessandro Bastoni appears unlikely with Inter adamant he's not for sale; punters should avoid backing a Bastoni-to-Barcelona outcome and instead consider markets for Barcelona signing an alternative centre-back or for Arsenal to press their interest. Odds are likelier to favor Inter keeping Bastoni into summer 2026.
Barcelona plot major 2026 rebuild with centre-back priority
Summer window strategy: No.9 and defensive reinforcements
Barcelona are planning a significant recruitment drive in the 2026 summer transfer window, targeting at least two or three major signings. A new number nine is earmarked to replace the departing Robert Lewandowski, while a central defender — ideally a natural left-sided centre-back — is a high priority after defensive issues this season.
Where the defence currently stands
Inigo Martinez’s move to Al-Nassr last summer has left a clear void at left-sided centre-back. Pau Cubarsi and Eric Garcia have been Hansi Flick’s go-to partnership recently, but the depth and natural left-sided options are limited, with Gerard Piqué’s successor options thin on the left of central defence.
Bastoni emerges as dream target, but Inter resist
Why Bastoni fits Barcelona’s profile
Alessandro Bastoni — Inter and Italy international — ticks many boxes for Barcelona. His defensive quality, composure on the ball and excellent passing range would suit Flick’s tactical preferences, offering both solidity and ball progression from the back.
Negotiation reality: Inter say 'not for sale'
Talks with Bastoni’s representatives occurred in December, but Inter’s stance remains firm: he is not for sale. That position makes a blockbuster transfer extremely difficult. Even if regulatory changes such as a return to La Liga’s 1:1 rule improve Barcelona’s chances financially, the likelihood of convincing Inter to part with one of their best defenders is slim.
Alternatives and market implications
Other names linked and practical options
Nico Schlotterbeck and Gonçalo Inácio have been mentioned as potential targets, but Barcelona’s realistic approach may focus on more attainable left-sided centre-backs or internal solutions. Expect the club to explore multiple avenues rather than betting the rebuild on a single marquee capture.
What this means for bettors
With Inter reportedly unwilling to sell, markets that assume a Bastoni-to-Barcelona move should be treated with caution. Punters may find better value on Barcelona landing an alternative defender, Arsenal escalating their interest, or on Inter retaining Bastoni through summer 2026.
Bottom line
Alessandro Bastoni remains a dream target for Barcelona, but Inter’s resistance and practical transfer constraints make a summer switch unlikely. Barcelona will still pursue defensive reinforcements and a new striker, but expect contingency plans and alternative centre-back targets to dominate their summer business.
Messi to Newell's? Ronaldo to Sporting? Soccer's potential romantic returns
Barcelona have drawn up plans to make at least two or three major signings during the 2026 summer transfer window. A number nine is wanted to replace the outgoing Robert Lewandowski, while there is al...
Yahoo! News
