<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barcelona</a> have managed to remain one of the most competitive teams in Europe, winning LaLiga. However, they have not been able to restore defensive stability. For that reason, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/alessandro-bastoni/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alessandro Bastoni</a> had emerged as the ideal candidate, Inter Milan are not particularly willing to let him leave. As a result, the Blaugrana are now reportedly turning their attention to Cristian Romero, who had already been recommended by <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lionel Messi</a> back in 2021.



According to Ferran Correas via Diario Sport, Lionel Messi recommended the signing of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristian-romero/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cristian Romero</a> in 2021 as a reliable reinforcement for the defensive line. However, Barcelona opted to sign Eric García instead on a free transfer. Following that, the Argentine defender joined Tottenham Hotspur for €54 million. While the Blaugrana missed the chance to sign him back then, they have now reportedly added him to their list of targets for the summer of 2026.



Alessandro Bastoni remains the top priority to strengthen the defense. However, Inter Milan are not willing to let him leave for less than €70 million, complicating any potential move. As a result, Barcelona have decided to add Cristian Romero to their shortlist, especially with Tottenham Hotspur close to relegation, reveals Diario Sport. However, the Blaugranas may seek a transfer move around €50-60M or even less if they are relegated.



While Romero is not a left-footed defender like Bastoni, Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco highly value his profile. At 28 years old, the Argentine brings leadership, quality on the ball, and a strong mentality in big matches, having been closely monitored throughout the season. For this reason, they see him as a player with a profile similar to Iñigo Martínez, capable of organizing the defensive line with his experience and decisiveness.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/02/04174214/romero-1920x1080.webp" alt="Tottenham captain Cristian Romero." class="wp-image-619561"><figcaption>Tottenham captain Cristian Romero.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Cristian Romero was key in Lionel Messi’s Argentina World Cup team</h2>



Argentina managed to surprise everyone with their dominant performances at the 2022 World Cup, shining offensively through Lionel Messi and Ángel Di María. However, head coach Lionel Scaloni made a bold call-in defense by placing his trust in Cristian Romero, who went to became one of the standout players of the tournament, delivering consistently strong and decisive performances coupled with Nicolas Otamendi.


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With his competitive spirit, physicality, and excellent vision, Cristian Romero became an undisputed starter, playing a key role in winning the trophy. Upon arriving in the Premier League, the Argentine established as one of the most well-rounded defenders, holding his own against players like Virgil van Dijk and being considered one of the best in the league. For this reason, his potential move to Barcelona would be a huge boost to the team’s balance.



In the event that Tottenham Hotspur are relegated to the EFL Championship, the Blaugrana would be in pole position to secure his signing, offering him a guaranteed starting role and a highly competitive project. However, they would still have to compete with clubs such as Atlético Madrid and others from the Premier League, who have pursued his signing in recent seasons. With this in mind, he is expected to be at the center of a major transfer move.

Report: Lionel Messi’s 2021 advice to Barcelona gains relevance as Cristian Romero emerge amid Alessandro Bastoni doubts

Report: Lionel Messi’s 2021 advice to Barcelona gains relevance as Cristian Romero emerge amid Alessandro Bastoni doubts - World Soccer Talk

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Following the departure of Iñigo Martínez, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barcelona</a> have faced serious defensive issues, which ultimately led to their Champions League elimination. As a result, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/alessandro-bastoni/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alessandro Bastoni</a> emerged as an ideal solution, as he is reportedly looking to leave Inter Milan. While his arrival initially appeared complicated, both clubs have reportedly found a potential solution, with the Nerazzurri showing interest in Héctor Fort as part of the deal.



According to Gianluca Di Marzio, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-milan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Inter Milan</a> are open to the departure of Alessandro Bastoni in the summer of 2026. Despite being a cornerstone of the team, they are aware of the Italian’s interest in moving to Barcelona, valuing his transfer at €70M (around $82M). However, the Spanish side is reportedly aiming for a deal in the €50–60M range (around $58–70M). As things stand, both parties appear to be moving toward a compromise.



In an effort to reinforce their defensive line, the Nerazzurri are interested in signing Héctor Fort, a Barcelona full-back currently on loan at Elche CF. With this in mind, the Blaugrana could be open to including him in a deal for Bastoni, reducing the overall transfer package, according to Matteo Moretto. Valued at €12M on Transfermarkt, the Spanish full-back could bring the operation down to the €50–60M range that they are looking to pay.



Following his red card with Italy national football team in the last match, Alessandro Bastoni does not appear fully comfortable. Ahead of the next game against Cagliari Calcio, head coach Cristian Chivu acknowledged that the defender is not at his best, both physically and mentally, ruling him out. As a result, he could push the Italian side for a move to Barcelona, potentially forcing a reduction in his transfer fee in the summer of 2026.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/04/12114122/Alessandro-Bastoni-e1776023848120-1920x1080.webp" alt="Inter Milan star Alessandro Bastoni" class="wp-image-635813"><figcaption>Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Barcelona reportedly add Luka Vušković as backup to Bastoni deal</h2>



Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have kept Alessandro Bastoni as their top priority, as his profile is highly valued by sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick. However, his signing could prove quite complex, as Inter Milan maintain a very high valuation. As a result, the Blaugrana have reportedly also turned their attention to Luka Vušković, who has impressed at Hamburger SV.


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According to Gabriel Sans, via Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugrana are closely monitoring Luka Vušković. Despite being under contract with Tottenham Hotspur until 2030, the Croatian is not keen on playing for the English side and is seeking a move following his loan spell at Hamburger SV. Should they end up being relegated, the defender could push even harder for an exit, with FC Barcelona interested in securing his arrival.



After impressing at Hamburger SV, Luka Vušković has seen his valuation rise to €60M (around $70M) on Transfermarkt, and it could climb even higher, as Tottenham are keen to keep him. However, his agent, Pini Zahavi, has a close relationship with Barcelona president Joan Laporta, which could facilitate a move by putting pressure on the English side to negotiate his sale.

Alessandro Bastoni nears Barcelona as Inter Milan reportedly chase Hector Fort to be included in the move

Alessandro Bastoni nears Barcelona as Inter Milan reportedly chase Hector Fort to be included in the move - World Soccer Talk

Throughout the 2025–26 season, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/alessandro-bastoni/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alessandro Bastoni</a>’s future has been a topic of controversy. Although he is under contract with Inter Milan, he is reportedly looking to leave, with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barcelona</a> being the main suitor for his signature. Although the Italian side considers him a cornerstone, they appear to be taking steps toward his departure, as they have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Tarik Muharemovic as his replacement.



According to Tuttosport, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-milan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the Nerazzurri</a> have reached an agreement to sign Tarik Muharemovic for next season. At just 23 years old, the Bosnian is one of the best left-footed center-backs in Serie A, having impressed at Sassuolo. However, the deal has not been finalized yet, so they are also keeping Oumar Solet (26, Udinese), Joel Ordóñez (21, Club Brugge), Mario Gila (25, Lazio), and Giovanni Leoni (19, Liverpool) on their list of priorities.



Far from being a minor detail, Inter Milan’s move suggests they could be open to selling Bastoni to Barcelona, securing a replacement first. The Italian defender could leave for €70 million (around $82 million) to the Spanish side, significantly higher than the previously speculated €50 million. Even so, Barcelona appear determined to pursue the deal, as he is viewed as a key difference-maker for Hansi Flick and his tactical setup.



<h2>Report: Bastoni and Inter Milan reach agreement ahead of his departure</h2>



After joining Inter Milan for €31 million in 2017, Alessandro Bastoni established as one of the team’s best players. However, the Italian is not experiencing his best moment in the country following his heavily criticized performances with the national team. In addition, Barcelona’s interest has made his potential departure more likely. As a result, the player has reportedly reached an agreement with the Nerazzurri over his exit.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/12/18164345/alessandro-bastoni-inter-milan-1920x1080.webp" alt="Alessandro Bastoni of Inter." class="wp-image-610899"><figcaption>Alessandro Bastoni of Inter.</figcaption></figure>



As per La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter Milan and Alessandro Bastoni have decided to put any talks regarding his potential transfer on hold until they mathematically secure the Serie A title. However, the Italian defender remains keen on joining Barcelona, and once that objective is achieved, he is expected to push for a move to the Spanish side.


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<h2>Barcelona reportedly chase alternatives amid Bastoni struggles</h2>



Although Barcelona continue to prioritize the signing of Alessandro Bastoni, they are already working on alternatives to strengthen their defense. Amid growing uncertainty surrounding the Italian’s potential move due to complications with Inter Milan, they have turned their attention to Luka Vušković. According to Diario AS, the 19-year-old Croatian, currently on loan at Hamburg from Tottenham Hotspur, is not willing to join the English side.



After impressing in the Bundesliga and emerging as a strong prospect for the 2026 World Cup, the Blaugranas have reportedly decided to pursue his signing. Moreover, he is keen on joining the Spanish side, which could facilitate the deal by putting pressure on his club to allow a departure, BILD reports. As a result, coach Hansi Flick would secure a defensive reinforcement, whether it be Bastoni or Vušković.

Alessandro Bastoni nears a Barcelona move as Inter Milan reportedly reach an agreement for Tarik Muharemovic

Alessandro Bastoni nears a Barcelona move as Inter Milan reportedly reach an agreement for Tarik Muharemovic - World Soccer Talk

Throughout the 2025–26 season, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barcelona</a> have targeted Alessandro Bastoni as one of their main objectives to strengthen the defensive line. While his arrival initially seemed difficult, the Italian is now reportedly close to the Blaugranas. Following inconsistent performances, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-milan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Inter Milan</a> have supposedly opened the door to negotiations for the defender, requesting around €80 million for his transfer.



According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter Milan executives have given their approval for contacts to begin between Barcelona and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/alessandro-bastoni/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alessandro Bastoni</a>. Despite this, the Blaugrana have not yet made an offer that fully convinces the Nerazzurri, as they are proposing €40–45 million plus add-ons, while Inter are asking for €70–80 million. However, negotiations are reportedly moving in a positive direction.



The Blaugranas would not have issues reaching an agreement on personal terms with Bastoni, as they have been in talks with his agents for several months. However, they need to offload some players in order to fit the deal financially, reports Florian Plettenberg. Despite this, coach Hansi Flick continues to view him as the top priority to strengthen the defensive line.



<h2>Barcelona might let some players leave to make room for Bastoni</h2>



Hansi Flick has managed to keep Barcelona as one of the most competitive teams. Despite this, they have not stood out defensively, making the arrival of Alessandro Bastoni a necessary move. However, the signing of the Italian could lead to the departure of some players, as they look to create room within the salary cap. In light of this, Ronald Araújo and Marc Casadó could be the most likely candidates.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/12/18164345/alessandro-bastoni-inter-milan-1920x1080.webp" alt="Alessandro Bastoni of Inter." class="wp-image-610899"><figcaption>Alessandro Bastoni of Inter.</figcaption></figure>



The Blaugranas have not relied on Ronald Araújo or Marc Casadó as key figures, with several players ahead of them in the rotation. Despite of this, both stars have made it clear that they have no intention of leaving Barcelona. For this reason, they might find it quite difficult to convince them to leave, so they might opt to free up space by making other departures.


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After failing to shine at AS Monaco and losing Flick’s backing, Ansu Fati is looking to leave the team permanently. Along with him, Marc-André ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczęsny could also leave the team, as Barcelona are reportedly looking to pursue a younger goalkeeper. Furthermore, Marcus Rashford’s future at the club is also unclear. With these departures, they could free up space in the salary cap and make room for Bastoni.

Alessandro Bastoni nears €80 million move to Barcelona as Inter Milan reportedly open to negotiations

Alessandro Bastoni nears €80 million move to Barcelona as Inter Milan reportedly open to negotiations - World Soccer Talk

This week, Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time, and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/alessandro-bastoni/">Alessandro Bastoni</a> played a regrettably pivotal role in that failure. The fallout from it could help Barcelona in negotiations for the defender.



Italy’s elimination in the European playoffs came via penalties after a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, things had started well for the Azzurri, who took the lead through a goal from Moise Kean. Bastoni, though, was sent off in the 41st minute of the first half, severely hurting the team’s chances.



With the result decided, Bastoni became the focal point of criticism. The Italian press singled him out as one of the main culprits, labeling his red card as “stupid.” In addition, La Gazzetta dello Sport wrote: “Bastoni and a disastrous 2026.”



Italian fans also made their frustration clear, flooding his social media posts with aggressive comments. According to Mundo Deportivo, the player’s latest post received more than 13,000 comments, prompting Bastoni and his wife to restrict interactions on their Instagram accounts to stop the harassment.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/04/01173644/bastoni-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-633183"><figcaption>Bastoni was sent off during the first half of the match between Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Barcelona are interested in Bastoni</h2>



The difficult situation surrounding Alessandro Bastoni, amid widespread criticism from both media and fans in Italy, could prove decisive for his future. In that context, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/">Barcelona</a> are circling, waiting for the right opportunity to open negotiations.


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“At the club, they believe they can land Bastoni for a fee capped at €55–60 million, and Italy’s elimination along with the public backlash could ease the player’s exit,” Mundo Deportivo report.



It is well known that Barcelona are in the market for a left-footed center back to fill the void left by Inigo Martinez, who joined Al Nassr at the start of the season. Bastoni is considered one of the top priorities, although he faces competition from other targets such as Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck and Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi.



<h2>Bastoni left out of the World Cup again</h2>



Despite being one of the most sought-after defenders in the world, Alessandro Bastoni’s international career has been far less accomplished than expected. At 26, he has yet to play in a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/world-cup/">World Cup</a>, with Italy having missed the tournament since 2014.



Bastoni made his international debut in 2020 and, a year later, won the UEFA Euro 2020 with Italy, defeating England on penalties. However, in World Cup qualifiers, he has been unable to help his national team secure qualification for 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups.



At best, Bastoni could make his World Cup debut in 2030 at age 30, a situation similar to that of other stars from the country such as Gianluigi Donnarumma, Sandro Tonali, Nicolo Barella and Moise Kean.

How Italy’s World Cup failure could help Barcelona land Alessandro Bastoni

How Italy’s World Cup failure could help Barcelona land Alessandro Bastoni - World Soccer Talk

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barcelona</a> are looking for a reliable center back to pair with Pau Cubarsí. Finding a left-footed defender with technique for that role is not easy, since players like that are hard to come by. Their preferred option appears to be Inter‘s Alessandro Bastoni, and a new report suggests good news for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/hansi-flick/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hansi Flick</a>.



According to Diario Sport, Inter are already looking for defenders to replace Bastoni in the next transfer window. The publication says Napoli’s Alessandro Buongiorno, Roma’s Evan Ndicka and Bologna’s Jhon Lucumí are among the names they are considering as possible replacements if their star defender leaves.



This is great news for Barcelona, since a few weeks ago the possibility of Bastoni joining the club seemed too distant. He is a very important part of a team that wants to win every competition. With the player seemingly open to a move to Spain after liking posts related to his transfer on social media, this adds to the excitement of fans who want to see him wearing the Barcelona shirt.



<h2>Alternative to Bastoni</h2>



This negotiation does not seem easy, as Barcelona have struggled financially for many years. Every major name in the market appears out of reach for that reason, so the club needs backup plans.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/03/21182943/senesi-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-629959"><figcaption>Senesi could arrive for free in the next market (Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The loss of Iñigo Martínez last year was strongly felt in a team that needs a very specific set of qualities from its defenders under Flick. The gap was covered with some solid performances from Gerard Martín, who is not certain to return to the team.


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A player to keep an eye on is Marcos Senesi. The Argentine has become a dependable piece for Bournemouth with strong Premier League experience. His biggest advantage as an option for Barcelona, even if Bastoni is signed, is his price, since he could arrive on a free transfer.



<h2>Bastoni’s price tag</h2>



Inter will not let a key player leave easily for a team that competes with them in the Champions League. For now, there is optimism in Barcelona that they could reach an agreement with the Italians, possibly offering a player as part of the deal to lower the fee. His reported price tag is around $75 million, or 70 million euros, which could put the Spanish club out of the race.

Alessandro Bastoni reports could be great news for Barcelona in their search for Inter’s defender

Alessandro Bastoni reports could be great news for Barcelona in their search for Inter’s defender - World Soccer Talk

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