Game over: Serie A giants shut door on Barcelona move for priority target | OneFootball

Barcelona’s pursuit of defensive reinforcements has suffered a major setback, with Inter Milan making their position on Alessandro Bastoni crystal clear.

According to SPORT, the Italian giants have effectively closed the door on any potential transfer, sending a strong message to Barcelona that their prized asset is simply not for sale – at any price.

Bastoni has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona in recent weeks, with the Catalan club identifying him as a key target to strengthen their backline.

However, within Inter Milan, there is little sign of concern.

In fact, reports suggesting a €50 million offer have not been taken seriously by the Italian team, who consider such a valuation far below what would be required to even begin discussions.

Price tag makes deal unrealistic

As such, any potential deal for Bastoni would require a truly extraordinary financial proposal. Without that, negotiations are simply off the table.

This stance effectively shuts down Barcelona’s hopes of securing the Italian international under their current financial strategy.

Amidst the transfer noise, Bastoni himself is reportedly content in Milan. He remains fully committed to Inter and comfortable within the club’s long-term vision.

Inter are in no mood to sell Bastoni. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

However, there is an interesting nuance in the situation. 

According to local reports, Barcelona are seen as the one club capable of making him reconsider his future should a serious offer materialise.

That said, there is currently no indication that the player is pushing for a move or applying pressure behind the scenes.

Barcelona willing to match salary

Barcelona’s interest is genuine, and they are reportedly prepared to match Bastoni’s current salary of around €7 million per year.

But without formal negotiations or a willingness from Inter to engage, that alone is not enough to move the situation forward.

At this stage, the gap between the two clubs is simply too large. 

Barcelona were hoping to approach the deal with a detailed financial plan, but Inter’s refusal to negotiate without a massive offer has complicated matters significantly.