Anfield Index
·17 March 2026
Liverpool offered the chance to sign world-class star for just €50m

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·17 March 2026

Liverpool’s long term defensive planning may have just received a timely boost. According to reporting credited to Gazzetta dello Sport, Alessandro Bastoni could be available for around €50m this summer, a development that may place the Reds in a strong position as they look to reshape their back line.
There is growing uncertainty around Liverpool’s central defensive options heading into the next transfer window. Ibrahima Konaté is approaching the end of his contract, while Joe Gomez could also move on with only a year remaining on his deal.
The situation becomes even more delicate when considering Virgil van Dijk. The Dutch captain remains the cornerstone of Liverpool’s defence but will also soon enter the final year of his contract. Replacing that level of leadership and consistency would be an enormous challenge.
Liverpool have introduced young talent into the squad, including Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni. Both prospects offer promise for the future, yet neither currently possesses the experience required to anchor a defence competing at the top level of the Premier League and in European competition
That is where Bastoni enters the conversation. The Inter defender has developed into one of Europe’s most composed centre backs, combining defensive intelligence with exceptional ball progression.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter may now be open to selling him for around €50m. For a player widely regarded among the elite defenders in Europe, that valuation would represent a remarkable opportunity in a market where top defenders frequently command far higher fees.

Photo: IMAGO
Liverpool’s recruitment team have often prioritised players entering their prime years, and Bastoni fits that profile perfectly. At 26, he offers both immediate quality and long term stability.
If the reported price proves accurate, interest from across Europe would be inevitable. Clubs seeking defensive upgrades will recognise the value of a player who has already demonstrated his quality in Serie A and on the Champions League stage.
One alternative occasionally mentioned in market discussions is Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund, who could also become available if his contract situation changes. Even so, Bastoni’s profile, experience and tactical suitability could make him particularly attractive to Liverpool.
For a club facing uncertainty in a key area of the pitch, the chance to secure a defender of Bastoni’s calibre for €50m may represent an opportunity too significant to ignore.
This report immediately sparks optimism. Defensive planning has become one of the club’s biggest priorities heading into another crucial summer, particularly after a difficult campaign that has left the Reds sitting fifth despite significant investment.
Manager Arne Slot delivered a remarkable Premier League title in his first season, yet the current campaign has highlighted structural issues within the squad. Central defence feels especially fragile when looking beyond Van Dijk.
Bastoni would represent exactly the type of signing Liverpool supporters want to see. He is experienced at the highest level, comfortable playing out from the back, and tactically intelligent enough to thrive in a possession focused system. His left footed profile also adds balance to a defensive unit that could soon require renewal.
The reported €50m valuation makes the situation even more compelling. In a market where elite centre backs regularly cost £70m or more, this feels like a rare opportunity. Liverpool’s recruitment team have built their reputation on identifying value before prices escalate and this could be another example.
Supporters will also recognise the timing. With uncertainty around multiple defenders and another major rebuild expected this summer, bringing in a proven performer like Bastoni would offer stability while younger players continue to develop.
If the opportunity truly exists, Liverpool should be firmly in the conversation. A defence anchored by Bastoni alongside Van Dijk, with younger options learning around them, would represent a significant step towards restoring the solidity that once defined the team.









































