Serie defender eyed by Real Madrid as Mourinho eyes defence

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup reaches its final match, Real Madrid’s focus swiftly returns to the transfer market, where a gap in the centre‑back department has emerged. New manager Jose Mourinho seeks a left‑footed defender to bolster a backline already reinforced by recent signings, and Serie A star Alessandro Bastoni has emerged as the prime target.

Los Blancos have already completed four summer acquisitions: Bernardo Silva, Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries and Marc Cucurella. These arrivals address midfield creativity and full‑back depth, yet the central defensive spine remains thin.

Mourinho’s desire to add another defender appears contingent on a significant departure. The club must free a squad place and wage capacity before committing to a new centre‑back.

According to journalist Miguel Serrano, citing Defensa Central, the Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni is the centre‑back Mourinho wants next. Bastoni is reportedly open to a move to Spain.

The report claims Bastoni has expressed that, if the decision were his, he would choose Real Madrid. He would welcome becoming a Los Blancos player immediately.

Real Madrid currently occupy 24 of their 25 available first‑team spots, leaving little room for another expensive signing. Raul Asencio, under contract until 2031, is identified as a potential departure to create space, though his salary and unwillingness to leave complicate matters.

Inter Milan were initially believed to entertain offers in the €60‑70 million range, but the Italian club’s stance may have hardened. No obligation exists for Inter to sell, meaning Madrid would need both squad space and substantial financial flexibility.

Bastoni does not wish to wait indefinitely; a lack of progress could see him consider interest from Premier League clubs. The summer window’s deadline adds pressure to resolve sales before any deal can be finalised.

Madrid’s immediate priority is to complete necessary departures before the window closes. Whether they can clear the path for Bastoni in the coming weeks remains to be seen.