Chelsea speeds up its bid for Bastoni and frustrates Mourinho
Chelsea has announced its intention to submit an €80 million offer for Italian defender Alessandro Bastoni, leaving manager José Mourinho without the possibility of strengthening Real Madrid's backline this summer in the upcoming transfer window.
According to Corriere dello Sport, the London club is preparing a proposal that could reach €80 million, a figure that places Bastoni among the most coveted defenders in the Premier League. The offer is shaping up to be the highest in the current market. The announcement was published by Periodista Deportivo.
Inter and the Italian response
Inter Milan has set a €70 million clause at San Siro, which had already discouraged Barcelona in its attempt. The Italian club insists that the Italian defender remains in Italy for at least one more season. The club's executive also noted that Chelsea's offer could put pressure on the market.
Flick had included Bastoni among his summer wishes, but the negotiation did not materialise. Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso got ahead of Mourinho, presenting his request to Real Madrid's board as a New Year gift.
Real Madrid and its alternatives
Madrid was left with a slightly ajar door, but the €70 million demand cooled the possibilities for the Merengues. Instead, the club added Ibrahima Konaté on a free transfer, bolstering a defence that had suffered too many injuries.
Alongside Konaté, Dumfries and Cucurella also arrived, completing a defensive line that seeks stability. In the latest Champions League, 27‑year‑old Bastoni started in Real Madrid's 1‑2 defeat and stood out among the visitors.
The defender has amassed over 300 appearances for Inter, 51 matches and three goals in the most recent season, as well as four assists in Serie A. His honours include three Scudetti, three Coppa Italia titles and three Supercoppa Italiana, and the 2021 Euro with Italy.
Chelsea appears determined to formally submit its proposal, which will force Mourinho to seek alternative reinforcements in the next market window. The dispute highlights the growing competition for Europe’s top defenders. Fans can share the news on social media.