Jose Mourinho wants Barcelona priority target as Real Madrid’s next defensive leader | OneFootball

Real Madrid could be preparing one of the biggest transfer hijacks of the summer after reports claimed that Jose Mourinho wants Alessandro Bastoni as a key defensive signing for next season.

According to a major update from Miguel Serrano, as relayed by Madrid Zone, the Inter Milan defender has emerged as Mourinho’s preferred option to strengthen Real Madrid’s backline ahead of what is expected to be a major rebuild in defence.

The situation becomes even more interesting because Bastoni has been strongly linked with Barcelona in recent months. 

The Catalan side had identified the Italian international as an ideal left-sided centre-back for Hansi Flick’s tactical system before financial complications slowed the operation significantly.

Now, Real Madrid could attempt to completely change the direction of the story.

Mourinho likes Bastoni

Mourinho wants Bastoni at Real Madrid. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Mourinho feels Los Blancos need multiple defensive reinforcements this summer after a season where the centre-back department showed clear weaknesses. 

Even before officially taking charge at the Santiago Bernabeu, the Portuguese coach is already said to be heavily involved in transfer planning behind the scenes.

And among all available options in the market, Bastoni appears to be the name Mourinho values most highly.

The Italian defender is widely regarded as one of the best ball-playing centre-backs in European football, and for Real Madrid, signing a defender of that level would strengthen an area that has caused many problems this season.

Furthermore, the added bonus, from Madrid’s perspective, is obvious – taking a priority defensive target away from Barcelona would make the operation even more satisfying inside the Spanish capital.

Can Bastoni transform Mourinho’s Real Madrid?

Bastoni is also wanted by Barcelona. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Once Mourinho returns to Real Madrid, defensive control will almost certainly become one of the biggest foundations of his new project. 

Throughout his managerial career, the Portuguese coach has always built successful teams around strong, reliable defenders capable of dominating physically and tactically.

That is exactly why the Bastoni-Real Madrid transfer story makes so much sense.

The Italian international is entering the prime years of his career and already possesses the experience of competing at the highest level. 

For Real Madrid, that profile and experience are extremely valuable.