Liverpool ready £80m bid for Serie A defensive star | OneFootball

Liverpool plot record-breaking move for Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni amid January defensive shake-up

Liverpool are reportedly preparing an audacious move to test Inter Milan’s resolve for Alessandro Bastoni, as the Italian champions eye defensive reinforcements ahead of the January transfer window.

The Premier League side are understood to be planning a substantial offer – potentially reaching the £85–90 million range – for the 26-year-old Italy international, whose consistency and ball-playing quality have made him one of Europe’s most coveted defenders. Bastoni remains under contract at San Siro until 2028, earning around €5.5 million per season, making him one of Inter’s top earners behind Lautaro Martínez and Nicolò Barella.

Bastoni attracting Liverpool interest

Liverpool’s defensive planning continues under Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes, who are believed to be seeking a long-term partner for Virgil van Dijk. The club have monitored several profiles across Europe, but Bastoni’s combination of technical assurance, left-footed balance and experience at the highest level is seen as a near-perfect fit for Slot’s tactical model.

Sources in Italy suggest that Liverpool are “ready to test Inter’s stance” with an offer that would exceed £85 million, a fee that would rank among the club’s highest-ever outlays. Inter, meanwhile, remain firm in their position: Bastoni is considered untouchable unless an extraordinary bid arrives.

The Nerazzurri’s defensive solidity has been a key part of their domestic success, though recent form has prompted discussions about rejuvenating an ageing back line. Francesco Acerbi, 37, and Matteo Darmian, 35, are both nearing the end of their contracts, while Stefan de Vrij, 33, remains tied until 2026. The need for fresh legs and future-proofing has therefore become increasingly urgent.

Inter exploring replacements

Inter’s recruitment department, led by Beppe Marotta and Piero Ausilio, are weighing up several options should Bastoni’s situation evolve. Manchester City’s Nathan Aké is among the names being followed closely. The Dutch defender has struggled for minutes this season and could be open to a new challenge, though his wages and long-term contract in England could complicate any approach.

Another potential target is Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi, whose age (25) and Premier League experience make him an attractive proposition for multiple Serie A sides. Juventus are also monitoring his situation, as is Inter, who appreciate his athleticism and composure in possession.

Beyond the Premier League, Inter’s scouting network continues to evaluate Lazio’s Mario Gila and Udinese’s Oumar Solet, both 25, while Lecce’s 20-year-old Tiago Gabriel has emerged as a developmental option consistent with the club’s investment strategy.

Financial flexibility for Inter’s project

Inter’s latest financial report provides a stronger foundation for transfer manoeuvres. The club recently announced their first positive balance in several years, with a €35 million profit and a record turnover of €546 million, representing a 37% rise year-on-year. Such improvement gives them the capacity to reinvest in the squad without breaching sustainability parameters.

President Beppe Marotta emphasised that this fiscal milestone reflects “foresight and strategic discipline”, suggesting Inter could sanction a defensive signing in January if the right opportunity arises. However, selling a player of Bastoni’s calibre would not be part of the plan unless forced by an overwhelming offer.

Liverpool’s pursuit and market context

For Liverpool, Bastoni represents both an immediate upgrade and a long-term successor for Van Dijk. With Ibrahima Konaté and Joe Gomez alternating in central roles, Slot wants greater reliability on the left side of defence. The Italian’s tactical intelligence, distribution and Champions League experience tick every box.

It remains to be seen whether Liverpool’s interest will translate into a formal bid before January or whether this is groundwork for a summer approach. What’s certain is that Bastoni’s name sits firmly on the shortlist of Europe’s elite defenders — and that Inter’s response to any concrete offer could define one of the next major transfer battles between Serie A and the Premier League.