Inter Milan superstar breaks silence on Barcelona transfer rumours – ‘Make me feel proud’ | OneFootball

As has been well-established by now, FC Barcelona have made the signing of a left-footed centre-back a priority for the summer of 2026.

Even though Gerard Martin has proven himself to be a reliable alternative in the position in recent games, Hansi Flick & co. feel it is important to bring in a quality player for the position.

Names such as Nico Schlotterbeck and Pau Torres have been touted as targets, but reports this week have claimed that Inter Milan and Italy superstar Alessandro Bastoni is the ‘chosen one’ for Barcelona.

Barça have sounded out Bastoni and have even been in contact with his entourage to explore the possibility of a transfer.

Bastoni opens up on Barcelona links

Now, Bastoni has broken his silence on the rumours linking him to Barcelona.

On being asked about the speculations during the press conference ahead of the Italian Super Cup semi-final between Inter Milan and Bologna, the defender said (h/t SPORT):

“These rumours make me feel proud. Just like you read them, I read them too. It means I’m doing well, but there’s nothing to it.”

Bastoni is a target for Barcelona. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

However, the Italian international made it very clear that he was happy at Inter Milan and was not focusing on what was being said in the media.

“I’m happy at Inter and I don’t have any problems here. I don’t focus on the news.”

Move unfeasible

Bastoni is considered one of the best centre-backs in the world, with an estimated value of around €80 million according to Transfermarkt.

He was also a key figure in Inter’s outstanding campaign last season under Simone Inzaghi, which culminated in a Champions League final, with the Nerazzurri beating Barça in the semi-finals.

While Barcelona hold an interest in the Italian international, the club has concluded that, for now, the deal is economically unfeasible, given the financial situation.

Moreover, Bastoni is under contract at Inter until June 30, 2028, and has now come out and acknowledged that he is happy with the Italian giants.