Inter president confirms Barcelona interest in star player

Inter Milan president Beppe Marotta has confirmed that Barcelona hold a genuine interest in signing star centre-back Alessandro Bastoni, though he caveated his comments by noting that concrete negotiations had yet to begin.

Speaking to Radio Anch'Io Sport after their Scudetto win, Marotta addressed the growing speculation surrounding the 25-year-old Italy international, who has emerged as a priority for the Catalan giants. 

“I won’t deny there is interest from Barcelona, but nothing concrete yet. A player leaves if he expresses the desire to go. At this moment he is happy to be with us, and we are happy with him.”

“He is a great talent. He was unlucky in certain episodes. Everyone had their eyes on him. He made that naive mistake against Juventus with the simulation; he was the first to admit it, but we protected him. He is a great champion.”

Barcelona are currently orchestrating an ambitious summer rebuild, targeting an elite centre-back alongside a new striker and a winger to reinforce their squad. 

Barcelona's pursuit is complicated given Bastoni's importance to an Inter side which just clinched their historic 21st domestic crown, the 2025/26 Serie A title.

The Nerazzurri officially wrapped up the Scudetto with three matches to spare following a decisive 2-0 victory over Parma at San Siro on Sunday.