Alessandro Bastoni remains FC Barcelona’s top priority to strengthen the centre-back position heading into the summer transfer window.
The Inter Milan and Italy defender is a player who enjoys broad approval within the club, and the Catalans have carefully planned to move towards his signing, with personal terms not expected to be an issue at all.
In fact, both Bastoni and Inter were prepared to begin official negotiations next week, but there is now growing concern, reports SPORT.
Barcelona interest in Cristian Romero worries Bastoni, Inter
Indeed, according to the report, the emergence of Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero as an alternative for Barcelona has caused concern for both Bastoni and the Nerazzurri.
Inter are open to a sale and have already begun planning their transfer activity with Bastoni’s departure in mind. But they fear that if they push too hard on the financial demands, Barça could turn to Romero, leaving a deal they considered close to completion in doubt.
Romero’s valuation is lower than the price Inter are insisting on for Bastoni, which has raised concerns that Barcelona may ultimately favour the Argentine. For now, the Catalans are waiting for Inter to secure the Serie A title before initiating formal).
At present, the positions remain far apart. Inter want a fee of around €60 million, while Barça are unwilling to go beyond €50 million, or less if a player is included in the deal.
Bastoni is believed to have already made the decision to leave Italy for the opportunity to play for Barcelona, and his contract would not be an issue.
The Catalans have the capacity to match and even improve his current salary at Inter, but the complexity lies in the final transfer fee.
The Italian defender is keen for an amicable agreement between the clubs and will not apply public pressure, although internally he may make his desire to move to Barcelona clear.
At Barcelona, there is no doubt that Bastoni is the ideal target, but the option of Romero could become very attractive if Tottenham are relegated, which would significantly reduce his price.
In that case, Romero is also willing to accept a move to Barça and is waiting to see whether he becomes the final choice.
Barcelona must manage the situation carefully and remain cautious in negotiations, as they aim to carry out a highly ambitious transfer window.
