Elite star makes blockbuster final decision on Liverpool

One of Europe's most-wanted has made a final decision on Liverpool. The Reds have been hoping this one would go their way.

There’s no question that Liverpool need a centre-back this summer with the way things are going. Ibrahima Konate’s contract will expire, while Joe Gomez has just one year remaining on his own deal.

Virgil van Dijk will turn 35, too, and Giovanni Leoni is coming back from a serious knee injury. Even Jeremy Jacquet, who hasn’t even arrived yet, is undergoing shoulder surgery and it’s unclear how much of pre-season he’ll be ready for.

But the list of potential centre-backs is dwindling. One of the best names on that list is Alessandro Bastoni, with the Inter star widely expected to leave this summer.

Liverpool have been consistently linked with the Italian but it appears they won’t be signing him. Mundo Deportivo now reports that Bastoni has opted for a move to Barcelona and will now only engage in talks with the Catalonians.

The Reds, it seems, will need to move onto new targets as they seek an elite centre-back.

Alessandro Bastoni: Situation Summary

As of 29 March 2026, Alessandro Bastoni has successfully returned to action for the Italian national team. He started in Italy's World Cup playoff match against Northern Ireland on 26 March, proving he has recovered from a bruised tibia sustained during the Milan derby. This is a significant boost for Inter Milan as they prepare for a high-stakes Serie A fixture against Roma on 5 April.

Season Performance

The 26-year-old center-back remains one of the world's premier ball-playing defenders. In 24 Serie A appearances this season, he has recorded 1 goal and 4 assists while contributing to 12 clean sheets. His distribution is statistically elite, ranking in the top percentiles for progressive passes and carries among European defenders. In the Champions League, he added another goal and an assist across 9 appearances.

Transfer Developments

Speculation regarding a summer move is intensifying. Reports indicate Bastoni may be open to a move to Barcelona, who have made him a top defensive priority. While Liverpool remains interested in him as a long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk, Barcelona is currently viewed as the frontrunner. Inter is reportedly holding out for a fee between 70 million and 80 million euros.

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