Report: Barcelona interested in highly rated 19-year-old Serie A sensation | OneFootball

According to a report from SPORT, Barcelona’s search for defensive reinforcements has led them to Serie A, where they are keeping a close eye on 19-year-old AC Milan left-back Davide Bartesaghi. 

The young defender, who is contracted with Milan until 2030, has quickly become one of Italy’s most promising defensive prospects, capable of playing both as a left-back and a left-footed centre-back.

For Barcelona, this versatility is precisely what has caught their attention. Since Inigo Martinez’s departure to Al Nassr, the Blaugrana have lacked a naturally left-footed defender who can offer balance and build-up support from the back. 

Bartesaghi’s dual role makes him an ideal profile for a team that values tactical flexibility.

At AC Milan, Bartesaghi’s rise has been rapid. After spending time developing in the club’s youth ranks, he has now secured four consecutive starts in the senior side, proving that he has earned the trust of the coaching staff. 

The 2025/26 season is shaping up to be a crucial period for the Italian teenager, as this is a chance for him to establish himself among the top defenders.

What is Barcelona planning?

Barcelona are closely tracking Davide Bartesaghi. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

While Barcelona are just monitoring the player for now, without any active negotiations, Bartesaghi’s name has already been discussed internally as a potential long-term fit for Barcelona. 

His signing will not only provide competition for Alejandro Balde and Gerard Martin, but he can also compete for the centre-back role.

In all fairness, the left-back position is perfectly covered at Barcelona as Jofre Torrents adds another layer of depth to the area.

Barcelona are not alone

Interestingly, Arsenal are also reported to be tracking Bartesaghi. It is said that the Premier League leaders have a growing interest in the young Italian.

For now, Barcelona’s stance remains one of cautious observation, but with Bartesaghi’s impressive growth and contract security at Milan, the teenager is clearly a name to watch. 

Should his progress continue at this rate, it would not be surprising to see him emerge as a genuine future transfer target for the Catalan club.