Barcelona’s plans to strengthen their defence have hit an unexpected obstacle, with fresh developments suggesting that their top target is no longer a straightforward signing.
According to SPORT, Alessandro Bastoni is now reconsidering his future despite being close to agreeing a move to the Catalan club.
It is known that Bastoni has been identified as Barcelona’s priority defensive signing, with the club fully committed to bringing him in ahead of next season.
Talks with the player’s camp had progressed well, and there was growing confidence that a long-term deal could be finalised. However, the situation has taken a turn in recent days.
Why is that?
According to the outlet, the defender’s position appears to have shifted following Inter Milan’s Scudetto celebrations.
The strong support he received from fans, combined with personal and family ties to the region, has created fresh doubts in his mind. What once seemed like a near-complete agreement is now far less certain.
Barcelona had deliberately taken a step back in negotiations out of respect, choosing not to advance discussions until Inter secured the league title.
Bastoni is having second thoughts over Inter exit. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The expectation was that progress would accelerate immediately after. Instead, the process has slowed, with a key step still missing – Bastoni has yet to formally communicate his desire to leave to Inter.
So what now?
At Barcelona, there is now a growing sense of urgency. The club wants clarity as soon as possible so they can either move forward with negotiations or shift focus to alternative targets.
Their sporting leadership has remained in close contact with the player’s representatives, hoping to push the deal forward.
Inter, for their part, are aware of the situation. They understand that if Bastoni decides to leave, it will be difficult to keep him.
However, without a clear signal from the player, there is little movement between the clubs at this stage.
Despite the recent doubts, Barcelona remain cautiously optimistic, as they believe that once emotions settle, Bastoni will still favour the move, especially considering the sporting project on offer and the potential benefits.
