Barcelona confident Bastoni pursuit is ‘under control’ as player aligns with Camp Nou move | OneFootball

Barcelona are stepping up plans to reinforce their defence ahead of the summer transfer window, with Inter Milan centre back Alessandro Bastoni emerging as their priority target for the left-sided role.

The Italian international has long been admired internally, alongside Josko Gvardiol, but the latter is now considered unattainable due to Manchester City’s firm stance and his recent injury setback. As a result, the Catalan club has fully shifted their focus toward Bastoni as the most realistic and strategic option.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona believe the operation is progressing positively, particularly regarding the player’s stance. After initial contacts with his entourage, Bastoni is open to joining the Blaugrana and is attracted by both the sporting project and the opportunity to play a key role in a young and ambitious squad.

Crucially, as per the report from MD, sources within the club feel that the situation with the player is “under control.” While a full agreement has not yet been finalised, there is growing confidence that the expectations of both parties are closely aligned, paving the way for a potential deal.

Bastoni is also understood to be prioritising a move to Barcelona and is not actively entertaining offers from other clubs at this stage. The prospect of playing alongside world-class talents such as Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Gavi, and Pau Cubarsi is seen as a major attraction for the defender.

From Barcelona’s perspective, there is also optimism regarding the financial side of the operation. The club believes Inter Milan’s current situation could force them into a significant sale this summer, with Bastoni viewed as one of the most valuable assets capable of generating funds.

Inter are in a phase of transition, with several key players in their squad already in their thirties, and lingering financial pressures from previous ownership continue to impact decision-making.

These factors could open the door for Barcelona to negotiate a transfer in the region of €55 to €60 million, a figure considered achievable by the Spanish side.

On the player’s side, salary expectations are not expected to be a major obstacle. Bastoni currently earns around €5.5 million per year at Inter, with a proposed renewal set to increase that figure. However, Barcelona are believed to be ready to offer improved terms, and the deal is seen as feasible if the club successfully returns to the 1:1 spending rule.

There are also sporting factors working in Barcelona’s favour. Bastoni has endured a difficult season at Inter, facing criticism over performances and controversy, while the team’s early Champions League exit has added to the frustration following last season’s heavy final defeat.

Meanwhile, Inter have already started preparing for a potential departure, identifying possible replacements in Serie A, which further indicates that a sale is a realistic scenario.

Although negotiations are still ongoing and no final agreement has been reached, Barcelona’s growing confidence, combined with the player’s willingness and Inter’s situation, suggest that the operation is firmly on track heading into the summer.