Report: Andoni Iraola wants Liverpool to sign world-class defender | OneFootball

Bastoni emerges as key Iraola target in Liverpool defensive rebuild

Liverpool’s summer plans appear to be gathering pace, with Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni reportedly emerging as one of the primary targets identified by Andoni Iraola as he begins shaping a new era at Anfield.

According to an exclusive report from SportsBoom, Bastoni has been earmarked as the ideal candidate to strengthen Liverpool’s defence during a period of significant change. The Italy international has established himself among Europe’s elite centre-backs over the past seven seasons at Inter Milan and is now being linked with a move to the Premier League.

For Iraola, who has built his reputation on intensity, organisation and aggressive football, the attraction is obvious. Bastoni combines physical presence with technical quality and possesses the ability to initiate attacks from deep positions, qualities that would fit naturally into the Spaniard’s tactical framework.

Photo: IMAGO

Bastoni profile suits Iraola vision

One of the defining characteristics of Iraola’s teams has been their willingness to play on the front foot. His defenders are expected not only to defend aggressively but also to contribute significantly during possession phases.

Bastoni’s development at Inter Milan has made him one of the most complete defenders in European football. Comfortable carrying the ball forward, capable of breaking opposition lines with his passing and experienced in high-pressure environments, the 27-year-old appears to tick many of the boxes Liverpool are seeking.

The former Atalanta academy graduate joined Inter Milan for around £27 million and has since accumulated close to 300 appearances for the club. During that period, he has helped establish Inter as one of Italy’s dominant forces while consistently competing at the highest level in Europe.

His trophy collection reflects that success. Bastoni has won three Serie A titles and featured prominently in two Champions League campaigns that ended in heartbreak as runners-up.

Those experiences have elevated his standing across European football and explain why any move away from San Siro would require a substantial financial commitment.

Inter Milan determined to keep prized asset

Despite growing speculation, Inter Milan are under no pressure to sell one of their most valuable players.

The Italian giants view Bastoni as a cornerstone of their project and would be reluctant to sanction his departure without receiving a fee that reflects his status and importance.

SportsBoom reports that any potential deal could exceed £70 million, a figure that highlights both Bastoni’s quality and the challenge Liverpool would face in securing his signature.

Inter’s negotiating position is strengthened by the defender’s long-standing connection with the club. Having spent his entire senior career in Italy, Bastoni remains deeply respected within the Nerazzurri dressing room and among supporters.

That said, the possibility of testing himself in a new environment could become an important factor if Liverpool’s interest develops further.

Premier League challenge could tempt Italy international

Sources cited by SportsBoom suggest Bastoni could be intrigued by the opportunity to experience Premier League football.

For many elite players, England’s top flight represents the ultimate test, combining relentless intensity with global exposure. Bastoni has already achieved considerable success in Italy, both domestically and internationally, having been part of Italy’s victorious Euro 2020 squad while earning more than 40 senior caps.

A move to Liverpool would offer another opportunity to compete for major honours while testing himself in one of football’s most demanding environments.

That prospect could become increasingly attractive should Iraola present a compelling vision for Liverpool’s future.

Liverpool statement signing gathers attention

Speaking after arriving at Anfield, Iraola delivered a message that reflected his approach to the challenge ahead.

“For me, you’re all new signings.”

He also spoke about his determination to “earn the right to belong” at Liverpool, underlining his desire to build a squad capable of challenging for the biggest prizes in the game.

Securing a player of Bastoni’s calibre would certainly represent a statement of intent. Beyond his defensive qualities, the Italian would bring leadership, experience and a winning mentality to a squad entering a new chapter.

Whether Liverpool can convince Inter Milan to part with one of their most influential players remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that Bastoni’s name is likely to remain prominent throughout the transfer window as Iraola looks to put his stamp on Liverpool’s future.