Barcelona target Alessandro Bastoni receives emotional message from Inter Milan great | OneFootball

The future of Alessandro Bastoni continues to dominate headlines in Italy, and now another legendary figure from Inter Milan has stepped forward to share his thoughts on the defender’s situation amid links with Barcelona.

Only hours after former striker Christian Vieri advised Bastoni to make a decision “with his heart and his head”, former Inter and Italy defender Marco Materazzi has now delivered an even clearer message to the centre-back.

Speaking during the Lega Serie A charity gala dinner, Materazzi did not hide his feelings when asked about the growing speculation surrounding Bastoni’s future.

What did he say?

The former defender, who won every major trophy with both Inter Milan and the Italy national football team during one of the most successful periods in the club’s history, urged the current defender to remain loyal to the current project.

“What would I say to him? To stay at Inter, because we know how passionate he is about the club,” he began, as per SPORT.

Materazzi also made it clear that, despite a difficult season in certain moments, Bastoni remains one of the most important players at the club.

Bastoni has been urged to stay. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The former Inter icon acknowledged the pressure surrounding the current campaign but insisted there is no doubt regarding the defender’s quality or influence inside the squad.

“It’s been a somewhat unusual and difficult year, but his worth is beyond doubt.

“So, it’s up to him to make certain decisions that would motivate me, but knowing his character, perhaps they’ll motivate him too,” he added.

Regarding his links with Barcelona, although no official negotiations have taken place so far between Barcelona and Inter Milan, Bastoni’s name continues to appear on the radar at Camp Nou.

For now, though, Bastoni remains focused on finishing the season strongly with Inter.

After already helping the club secure the Serie A title, the defender is now aiming to complete a historic domestic double by winning the Coppa Italia final against Lazio.