Barcelona could gain transfer leverage as Inter Milan seek Bastoni renewal

Inter Milan have begun preliminary discussions with Alessandro Bastoni’s representatives as they try to prevent the defender from entering the final year of his contract, with Barcelona still interested in signing him.

Bastoni’s current deal runs until the summer of 2028. However, according to Tuttomercatoweb, Inter have contacted people close to the Italy international to open negotiations over an extension.

The talks remain at an early stage and an agreement appears some way off. Bastoni currently earns about 6m euros a year.

Inter are keen to retain one of their key players, but the club could be forced to consider selling him for significantly less than expected next summer if he does not commit to a new contract, according to Sport.

That possibility could revive a move that Barcelona explored during the most recent summer transfer window. The Catalan club made an attempt to sign Bastoni but were deterred by Inter’s financial demands.

Inter valued the player at about 80m euros, a figure Barcelona considered excessive. The valuation ultimately prevented the two clubs from reaching an agreement.

Barcelona’s interest has not disappeared, though. Sky Sports recently reported that contact between the club and Bastoni’s representatives remains ongoing.

The defender has not ruled out the possibility of playing at Camp Nou. His priority, however, is to establish the sporting terms of any potential move, including the role he would be given in Hans Flick’s team.

The summer of 2027 could prove decisive. If Bastoni has not renewed by then, he will enter the final season of his Inter contract. That would significantly alter the balance of negotiations.

Inter would then face a choice between accepting a fee below their current expectations or keeping Bastoni for another season and risking losing him for nothing when his contract expires in 2028.

Such a situation would strengthen Barcelona’s position. The club could pursue a fresh attempt to sign the defender while negotiating a fee expected to be considerably lower than the 80m euros discussed during the previous summer.

For Inter, renewing Bastoni’s contract would secure the future of an important member of the squad in Milan. If no agreement is reached, Barcelona would have an opportunity to return for the player in more favourable financial circumstances.