Earlier this summer, there was significant speculation that Barcelona would exert all efforts to acquire Alessandro Bastoni.
The Italian international was seen as the perfect candidate to take over from Inigo Martinez and to partner with Pau Cubarsi in the defense for many years ahead.
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However, negotiations with Inter have stalled, and reports suggest that Hansi Flick is also becoming a barrier to finalizing the deal.
Barcelona’s Negotiations with Inter Stagnate
Barcelona’s discussions with Inter have cooled. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
According to a new report from Gazzetta dello Sport (h/t Mundo Deportivo), Barcelona’s chase for Bastoni may be at risk as their talks with Inter Milan have slowed significantly.
The main issue revolves around Bastoni’s valuation, with Inter setting his price at approximately €60 million.
Barcelona views this amount as too high and hopes to negotiate a lower figure for the Italian international. However, Inter Milan remains firm in their stance and shows no willingness to sell their star defender at a discounted rate.
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Will Bastoni Remain at Inter?
Bastoni is expected to remain with Inter. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
The report also indicates that Bastoni was keen on a quick transfer to Barcelona this summer, but that move has not materialized.
Thus far, Barcelona has not made any significant efforts to resolve the deadlock, showing little concrete interest or even submitting an official bid.
As things stand, it seems likely that Bastoni will continue his career at Inter, donning the Nerazzurri colors next season.
While Barcelona is still eager to strengthen their defense, the prospect of signing their primary target, Bastoni, appears increasingly unlikely.