Barcelona’s pursuit of top defensive target hinges on Marcus Rashford – here’s why | OneFootball

It is no secret that Barcelona are interested in the services of Alessandro Bastoni, in their bid to shore up their defensive unit next season.

The Italian international has been identified as the ideal defensive partner for someone like Pau Cubarsi, due to his technical abilities and quality on the ball.

He can operate in a higher defensive line while his identity as a left-footed ball-playing centre-back makes him, at least on paper, the ideal replacement for Inigo Martinez.

Move for Bastoni depends on these factors

However, luring Bastoni away from Inter Milan will be difficult with the Italian giants asking for big money for the services of their star defender.

That is why Barcelona’s pursuit of the Italian centre-back in the coming summer would depend on a multitude of factors, including Marcus Rashford, reports Fabrizio Romano.

Can Barcelona lower Man United’s asking price for Rashford? (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

It is well known that Barça are interested in signing Rashford on a permanent deal. He has a buyout clause worth €30 million embedded in his loan contract.

But if Barcelona do end up spending €30 million to sign Rashford, it would alter their plans to sign Bastoni, which is why the club are looking to negotiate a lower fee for the English international.

Another factor that will play a crucial role is Barcelona’s hunt for a new number nine. Robert Lewandowski is leaving at the end of the season, whereas Ferran Torres has struggled with form, as pointed out by Hansi Flick after the Athletic Club win.

Signing a top-quality number nine, therefore, will take precedence over the hunt for a new centre-back. How well and efficiently Barcelona handle this situation will dictate the Bastoni pursuit, especially from an economic point of view.