Chelsea and Liverpool prepare £70m battle for Inter star Bastoni
Chelsea and Liverpool are set to go head-to-head in the race to sign Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni, according to TEAMtalk. The 27-year-old is valued at around £70m and is reportedly open to a Premier League move, despite previously favouring Barcelona.
- Player: Alessandro Bastoni, 27, centre-back
- Clubs interested: Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City
- Current club: Inter Milan
- Potential fee: £70m
- Transfer window: 2027
- Player preference: Open to Premier League move after initial Barcelona preference
Deal details
Inter Milan are in no hurry to sell Bastoni, but TEAMtalk reports they could be open to offers in the region of £70m. The defender's current contract situation is not detailed, but his performances have attracted interest from several clubs.
Chelsea and Liverpool are set to battle for his signature in 2027. Manchester City are also keen on the Italian international.
Why Chelsea want Bastoni
Chelsea are admirers of the 27-year-old due to his defensive and technical qualities, which make him a suitable fit for a three-man defence under Xabi Alonso, according to the report. The Blues are looking to strengthen their backline and see Bastoni as an ideal addition.
Why Liverpool want Bastoni
Liverpool are assessing several centre-backs ahead of 2027 and have placed the 6ft 2in defender on their radar. They have done extensive checks on him as they prepare for the post-Virgil van Dijk era. The Reds see Bastoni as a potential long-term replacement for their captain.
Competition and player preference
TEAMtalk reports that despite Bastoni's preference to join Barcelona in the summer, intermediaries have informed Chelsea and Liverpool that the defensive colossus is also open to moving to the Premier League. This boosts the English duo's chances, although Barcelona could still pose a threat.
Manchester City are also interested in the defender, adding further competition for his signature.
What was said
"world-class"
Inzaghi's description highlights Bastoni's quality and justifies the £70m price tag. The defender has been a key part of Inter's recent success.
The numbers
- Bastoni has featured in all five Serie A games this season.
- He has helped Inter win three Serie A titles, two Coppa Italia trophies, and three Supercoppa Italiana crowns.
- Inter's latest triumph was their 21st Scudetto title last season.
- Potential transfer fee: £70m.
Bastoni's career so far
Bastoni joined Inter from Atalanta in 2017 and was initially integrated into the club's academy setup, where he impressed for both the U17 and U19 sides. Loan spells with Atalanta and Parma Calcio 1913 provided him with valuable senior experience before he finally made his Inter debut in 2019.
The Italian has played an important part in one of the most successful eras in Inter's recent history, helping them win three Serie A titles, including their latest triumph, alongside two Coppa Italia trophies and three Supercoppa Italiana crowns. After playing a key role in Inter's 21st Scudetto title last season, Bastoni has begun the ongoing campaign in rock-solid form, featuring in all five Serie A games this season, which has led to keen interest from several clubs.
Why Bastoni is worth £70m
Bastoni's defensive and technical qualities make him a valuable asset. His ability to operate in a three-man defence is particularly appealing to Chelsea, who are reportedly planning to use that system under Xabi Alonso. For Liverpool, his experience and leadership would be crucial as they look to replace Virgil van Dijk in the long term.
At 27, Bastoni is in his prime and has already proven himself at the highest level, winning multiple trophies with Inter. His performances for club and country have earned him a reputation as one of the best defenders in Serie A.
Talking points
- Should Chelsea prioritise a move for Bastoni over other defensive targets, given their need for a left-sided centre-back?
- Can Liverpool convince Bastoni to choose them over Barcelona, especially if the Catalan club formalises their interest?
- Is £70m a fair price for a 27-year-old defender who has never played in the Premier League?
- Would Bastoni be a guaranteed starter at either Chelsea or Liverpool, or would he face stiff competition?
What happens next
Chelsea and Liverpool are expected to monitor Bastoni's performances for the remainder of the season before making a formal approach in 2027. Inter's stance on the transfer and the player's own preference will be key. The battle for his signature could intensify if other clubs join the race, with Manchester City already lurking.
Frequently asked questions
Which clubs are interested in Alessandro Bastoni?
Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester City are all interested in signing Bastoni, according to TEAMtalk.
How much would Bastoni cost?
Inter would consider offers in the region of £70m for the defender.
Is Bastoni open to a Premier League move?
Yes, despite preferring Barcelona, intermediaries have informed Chelsea and Liverpool that he is open to moving to the Premier League.
Related Articles
Filed under: Transfer Rumours | LA Premier League Home
