Why Inter are now ‘seriously considering’ selling Barcelona target Alessandro Bastoni for €50m

Milan – Inter Milan’s hierarchy have opened the door to a sensational summer sale of Alessandro Bastoni, with Barcelona leading a queue of suitors ready to test the Nerazzurri’s resolve at the €50 million mark, according to Thursday’s edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Until recently the 28-year-old centre-back was viewed as a cornerstone of Simone Inzaghi’s defence, yet the club’s need for fresh capital has forced a dramatic rethink. Inter had initially earmarked striker Marcus Thuram as the most marketable asset, but sporting directors now believe Bastoni’s combination of age, pedigree and international experience could generate the quick, sizeable injection required to reshape the squad.

Bastoni’s contractual situation adds to the appeal for buyers. Tied to the Giuseppe Meazza side only until 2028, the Italy international is approaching the window in which Inter traditionally cash in to maximise value. Sources close to the negotiations say the asking price has already slipped from last summer’s €70 million valuation, and an offer “around €50 million plus bonuses” would be enough to trigger a green light from Corso Vittorio Emanuele.

Barcelona’s interest is long-standing and concrete, while Premier League scouts have also registered firm admirations. The player’s camp, described by the pink paper as “considering a dramatic move,” has not hidden its curiosity about a new challenge after a turbulent period in Serie A. Bastoni was at the centre of controversy during the Derby d’Italia for his involvement in Pierre Kalulu’s sending-off and for subsequent celebrations that drew heavy scrutiny from pundits and federation observers alike.

Off the pitch, talks over an extension have stalled. Weeks ago optimism surrounded a renewed deal; today the scenario has flipped, and a parting of ways in June is no longer taboo. With the transfer window still in the distance, Inter’s decision-makers will weigh every bid carefully, but for the first time in his Inter career, Alessandro Bastoni is officially on the market.

Barcelona, for their part, will press ahead, buoyed by the knowledge that €50 million could be enough to secure one of Europe’s most ball-playing left-sided centre-backs—and that Inter, strapped for liquidity, are ready to negotiate.