Liverpool gain advantage over Barcelona in Alessandro Bastoni pursuit

Liverpool are in a strong position to sign Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni after Barcelona grew frustrated with the financial demands of the deal.

The Catalan club were previously considered favourites to secure the Italy international’s signature ahead of the upcoming European campaign.

However, reports from Spain indicate that Barcelona are disappointed by the player’s reluctance to actively force a move and lower his £51.8m asking price.

This hesitation has reportedly opened the door for Arne Slot’s team to capitalise, given their superior financial flexibility compared to the La Liga side.

Barcelona stall over valuation

The 25-year-old centre-back recently helped his current employers secure the Serie A title, choosing to delay any transfer discussions until the Scudetto was officially lifted.

Inter Milan are standing firm on their €60m valuation, creating a complicated scenario for a Barcelona hierarchy currently constrained by strict financial regulations.

Consequently, the Spanish outfit are now reportedly exploring alternative defensive options, including Tottenham Hotspur’s Cristian Romero.

Defensive reshuffle at Anfield

A potential move to Merseyside has been widely touted as Liverpool prepare for life after club captain Virgil van Dijk, who is entering the final 12 months of his contract.

Despite these persistent transfer links, the incoming Dutch manager already possesses significant depth within his defensive ranks.

Ibrahima Konate is reportedly nearing a contract extension to secure his Anfield future, while versatile England international Joe Gomez remains a reliable first-team option.

Integrating the recent Serie A champion into an already crowded squad could present a delicate balancing act for the new managerial regime.