Barcelona feel signing of top defensive target is ‘under control’ | OneFootball

Barcelona’s plans to reinforce their defence for the 2026/27 season are pretty much known. 

In that regard, Italian centre-back Alessandro Bastoni has emerged as a priority target, and internally, there is growing belief that the operation is progressing in the right direction.

According to a recent update from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona view the potential signing of Bastoni as a situation that is currently “under control.” 

While a final agreement is yet to be reached, the confidence within the club comes from two key factors – the player’s openness to the move and Inter Milan’s complicated financial position.

Barcelona remain keen

Barcelona have been closely monitoring Bastoni as part of their strategy to strengthen the heart of the defence. 

The club see him as an ideal fit for Hansi Flick’s system, particularly due to his composure on the ball, tactical intelligence, and ability to build play from the back.

Initial contacts with the player’s representatives have been encouraging and Bastoni is understood to be open to a change of environment, with the possibility of playing for Barcelona appealing to him. 

However, the move will ultimately depend on whether the sporting project and financial package meet his expectations. 

The Bastoni situation is under control. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

So far, there is a sense that both sides are on the same page, even if the final details still need to be ironed out.

Within Barcelona, there is also confidence that Bastoni is leaning towards a move to Camp Nou and is not actively entertaining offers from other interested clubs. 

This gives Barcelona a crucial advantage in what could otherwise become a competitive transfer race.

Troubles at Inter

Another factor working in Barcelona’s favour is the current situation at Inter Milan. 

The Italian side is dealing with financial pressures, which could force them to consider significant sales in the upcoming window. 

Bastoni, given his market value and contract situation, is seen as one of the players who could help ease that burden.

Barcelona are fully aware of this situation and have already carried out their financial planning. 

As such, the Catalan side believe that a deal for Bastoni could be completed in the region of €55m to €60m, a figure they consider manageable given the player’s quality and long-term value.