Chelsea and Liverpool vie for Italy defender as £70m tag looms

Chelsea have shifted to a back‑three this season and feel they lack the ideal central figure to anchor that system, while Liverpool are planning for a post‑Virgil van Dijk defence. The 27‑year‑old Italy international Alessandro Bastoni, valued at close to £70 million by Inter Milan, fits both clubs' tactical needs.

English clubs keep Bastoni on radar

TEAMtalk Chelsea and Liverpool remain actively interested in Bastoni, a player who re‑emerged as a transfer option for Barcelona earlier this year. Both clubs were among those linked to the defender during the summer window and continue to monitor his situation.

Chelsea's back‑three needs and Liverpool's defensive plans

Chelsea’s move towards a three‑centre‑back formation under Xabi Alonso creates a demand for a defender comfortable defending in a back‑three while also offering technical quality and passing range – attributes Bastoni possesses. Liverpool, meanwhile, have begun planning for the eventual departure of Virgil van Dijk and are compiling a list of defensive targets ahead of 2027, with Bastoni featuring prominently.

The Reds have already carried out extensive scouting on the Italy international and view him as a viable option to refresh their back line. Their work on Bastoni reflects a broader strategy to secure a world‑class centre‑back without exceeding a realistic budget.

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Barcelona and Manchester City remain interested as Inter hold firm

Barcelona pushed strongly for Bastoni in the summer, but Inter Milan’s firm valuation of close to £70 million stalled the move. The player was convinced a switch to the Catalan giants was imminent, yet the price tag proved a major obstacle.

Manchester City also retain an interest in the defender, a scenario that could become more compelling if Ruben Dias were to leave the Etihad Stadium. Dias has attracted interest from Saudi Arabia, and a vacancy could see City turn to Bastoni as a replacement.

Inter Milan show no immediate pressure to sell, maintaining their £70 million price as the benchmark for any potential deal. Their stance indicates that only a club willing to meet that valuation could secure the Italy international.

Intermediaries have confirmed that Bastoni is open to a move to the Premier League, and his earlier preference for Barcelona should not be read as a reluctance to join England. This openness could prove decisive if Chelsea or Liverpool decide to increase their offers.