Barcelona handed reality check over Bastoni transfer by French icon: ‘Don’t see him as a top-class leader’ | OneFootball

Barcelona’s search for defensive stability continues to gather pace, with Alessandro Bastoni on the club’s radar. 

The Inter Milan centre-back has emerged as a priority target for the Catalan giants, who are keen to address long-standing issues at the back under Hansi Flick.

As negotiations between the two clubs continue to attract attention across Europe, former France international Marcel Desailly has offered a detailed assessment of Bastoni’s qualities and whether he is the right fit for Barcelona’s ambitions.

Speaking during his appearance on The Italian Football Podcast (h/t SPORT), Desailly first highlighted the Italian defender’s reliability and consistency, two traits that have defined his time in Serie A. 

“He is a very consistent player. I think he’s been at Inter for seven seasons and has performed well regardless of who the manager has been.”

Bastoni’s limitations

Despite acknowledging his strengths, Desailly was quick to point out what he believes is a crucial limitation in Bastoni’s profile. 

While the defender has played a key role in Inter’s domestic success, the Frenchman questioned whether he possesses the leadership qualities required at the very highest level. 

“I don’t see him as a top-class international leader, but it’s clear he’s a player who knows how to adapt to the systems in place. 

“That’s where his limitations lie. He has most likely helped Inter win the Scudetto this season, but that’s where I see his limitations at international level.”

Barcelona’s interest

Barcelona are interested in Bastoni. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

From Barcelona’s perspective, however, Desailly believes the move could still make sense. 

The Blaugrana have struggled defensively in recent seasons, particularly in decisive European matches, and the need for a commanding presence at the back has become increasingly obvious. 

“Bastoni can raise Barcelona’s level; it’s a club that needs a strong defensive attitude. 

“At Barcelona, they have incredible players in every position, but they’re weak in defence, which is why they don’t win the Champions League. 

“He could be the player who brings the consistency and strength that Barça’s defensive unit needs to reach another level. 

“It’s clear that Barça need defensive leaders,” he explained.

However, the former AC Milan star drew a clear line when comparing Bastoni to some of the game’s all-time great defenders. 

Referencing Italian legend Paolo Maldini, Desailly remarked, “He’s left-footed, and you could compare him to Maldini, but he’s not even half the player Maldini was,” he concluded.