Key Barcelona target says ‘yes’ to Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid project – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid appear to have taken a major step forward in one of their transfer operations after their incoming manager, Jose Mourinho, secured the approval of Barcelona target Alessandro Bastoni.

It is known that the Inter Milan defender has been admired by Barcelona, who had closely monitored his situation as part of their search for a left-footed centre-back.

However, while Barcelona have recently slowed down their pursuit, Real Madrid appear ready to accelerate aggressively.

Mourinho has agreed everything with Bastoni

According to the latest reports coming from Miguel Serrano, Mourinho has personally identified Bastoni as the ideal leader for Madrid’s next defensive generation. 

More importantly, the operation may already have received a crucial green light from the player himself.

Bastoni has said yes to Real Madrid move. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

According to the journalist, Real Madrid’s project under Mourinho is believed to have convinced Bastoni, with the defender giving an initial “yes” after discussions regarding the role he would play at the club.

Under the Portuguese, Real Madrid are building around younger profiles, and Dean Huijsen is viewed as one of the most important long-term pieces in that plan. 

Because of that, Mourinho is said to have personally explained his vision to the Inter defender, presenting him as the future “boss of the defence”, to which the player has shown openness towards the move.

Why Barcelona stepped back

Interestingly, Barcelona’s reduced focus on Bastoni is not necessarily linked to doubts about the player’s quality.

Instead, the Catalan side have recently reassessed their squad priorities.

Barcelona have decided to halt Bastoni’s operation. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

One reason behind that decision is the emergence of Gerard Martin, who has impressed significantly in recent months, especially because of the understanding he has developed alongside Pau Cubarsi on the left side of defence.

Now, there is growing confidence that the current defensive structure already possesses enough long-term potential without requiring another massive investment in that position.

Furthermore, Barcelona are also prioritising a completely different area of the squad.

Following Robert Lewandowski’s departure, the club now views the signing of a top-level goalscoring striker as the most urgent objective of the summer, which is why they are not ready to invest big in a defender.