26-year-old Roma defender emerges as cheaper left-footed centre-back target for Barcelona | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are preparing to strengthen the centre of their defence in the upcoming summer transfer window, with the signing of a left-footed centre back considered one of their top priorities. The main target remains Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni.

The Italian international is highly valued within the club for his profile, composure in possession, and ability to progress the ball from the back. He is also understood to be open to a move to Barcelona, although any operation will depend on Inter’s stance.

The Nerazzurri, fresh from domestic success, are not expected to make negotiations easy and are reportedly demanding around €70 million for their defender.

Given the complexity and cost of the deal, Barcelona are also studying alternatives in the market. According to Mundo Deportivo, citing journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, one of the names that has re-emerged is AS Roma defender Evan Ndicka. The Ivorian centre back is seen as a more affordable option if the club decides not to go all in for Bastoni.

Ndicka is not an unknown profile for Barcelona. The club already monitored him closely in 2023 when he was set to become a free agent following the end of his contract at Eintracht Frankfurt, although the move did not eventually materialise.

Since joining Roma, the 26-year-old has established himself as a key figure in defence. He has made 39 appearances across all competitions this season and has also contributed five goals, showing his threat in set-piece situations. His current contract runs until 2028, but his valuation is believed to be around €40 million, which makes him a significantly cheaper alternative compared to Bastoni.

From a sporting point of view, Ndicka offers reliability, physical strength, and comfort playing on the left side of central defence. While he may not reach Bastoni’s level in terms of elite build-up play, he is considered a solid and more financially viable solution for the squad.

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For now, Bastoni remains the preferred option for Barcelona. However, the club is keeping multiple scenarios open as they plan their summer business.

A final decision is expected only after Hansi Flick and Deco meet to define the squad needs and priorities for the upcoming season, which will ultimately determine whether Barcelona go all in for Bastoni or move decisively for a lower-cost alternative like Ndicka.