Barcelona target Alessandro Bastoni urged to leave Inter “for his own safety” | OneFootball

Alessandro Bastoni, whom Barcelona are trying to sign this summer, is going through the most difficult moment of his career. Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup is being partly blamed on him, with his red card in the penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier this week attracted a lot of criticism.

The 26-year-old defender was sent off in the first half of that match for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity. Italy were 1-0 at the time, but after conceding a late equaliser, they would go on to lose on penalties, which ensured they miss out on qualifying for a third successive World Cup.

Bastoni has taken a lot of heat over the red card, and according to Inter icon Beppe Bergomi (via Sport), it would be wise for the defender to leave the Nerazzurri and Serie A behind during this summer’s transfer window.

“I think he will have to leave Italy for his own safety. We lose an extraordinary talent, one of the best defenders in modern football. I’m very sorry, but I think for his own good he’ll have to look for a club abroad.”

Situation could play big role in deciding Bastoni’s future

Inter are willing to sanction an exit for Bastoni, with permission having recently been given permission to Barcelona to discuss contract terms with the centre-back. It remains to be seen whether he approves of a move to the Spotify Camp Nou, but given the criticism that has been coming his way from his home country, it would be no surprise to see him push for a move away.

For the time being, Bastoni’s focus will be on seeing the season out with Inter, after which his future will be defined. Barcelona are still working on his possible signing, which would be a major one if it is pulled off.