Serie A star is ‘crazy’ about playing for Barcelona

Barcelona’s pursuit of defensive reinforcements has taken a decisive turn after confirmation that Inter Milan centre-back Alessandro Bastoni is “crazy” about the prospect of moving to Camp Nou. Spanish media report that the 26-year-old Italy international is fully convinced of the merits of a switch to Catalunya and is eager to finalise the transfer as quickly as possible.

Bastoni’s name has circulated inside the club for weeks as sporting director Deco and the Barcelona hierarchy identified him as the priority target to shore up the back line. The mutual desire to strike a deal has now been underlined, with sources close to the negotiations insisting the player’s enthusiasm matches the club’s long-standing interest.

Barcelona officials regard the operation as “under control” and are working toward a fee in the region of €60 million to secure the defender’s signature. With Bastoni pushing for a swift conclusion, the Liga giants hope to wrap up what would represent a major early-summer coup.