Barcelona expect to beat Liverpool to signing of world class defender
It is known that Barcelona is actively seeking a new central defender, as this position has caused the team problems this season. The club's inability to find a replacement for Iñigo Martínez after his departure last summer has sometimes proven costly, hence there is an urgent need to address this issue soon.
Several candidates have been considered in recent months, and Alessandro Bastoni is the most preferred option. He would perfectly fill the void created by Martínez's departure last August, as he is a left-footed central defender – a profile currently lacking at Barcelona, with the exception of the converted full-back Gerard Martín.
Nevertheless, acquiring Bastoni this summer will not be easy for Barcelona. Aside from his price currently being too high for the club due to its well-known financial difficulties, it is reported that several other teams are also in the running for the player. Liverpool is noted as one of the contenders, although it is also asserted that the Catalans are confident they can sign the Inter and Italy star during the upcoming transfer window.
Bastoni Would Be Barcelona's Ideal Signing
If Barcelona decides to heavily invest in a central defender, there is no doubt that Bastoni would be the best choice. He would instantly raise the level of the defense, and with his ball-playing skills, he would perfectly fit into Hansi Flick's system.
However, this will only become possible if Barcelona returns to La Liga's 1:1 rule before the summer transfer window opens at the beginning of July. Even then, Inter clearly states that Bastoni is not for sale at any price, though this may not prevent the Catalans from making moves towards a potential deal. For now, work will continue behind the scenes.
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