Inter Milan sporting director Piero Ausilio has issued a pointed public rebuke to Barcelona over their handling of reported interest in Italian centre-back Alessandro Bastoni, demanding formal communication rather than what he described as a media-driven pursuit.
Speaking to the press, Ausilio was unambiguous in calling out the Catalan club’s tactics: “If someone wants Bastoni, they should call us and not talk [on the media].” He added: “There are no situations making us believe he will leave in the summer. We are very happy with Bastoni, and we’re sure he keep doing great for us.”
The comments came in direct response to widespread Spanish media reports suggesting Barcelona had already opened discussions with Bastoni’s representatives over personal terms — a claim that Ausilio’s statement strongly implies was conducted without any official approach to Inter Milan. The remarks indicate that Joan Laporta’s board has not yet made formal contact with the Serie A club.
Barcelona had reportedly identified the 27-year-old as their primary defensive target ahead of the summer transfer window, with the Italian international seen as a key profile to anchor their backline next season. However, the absence of an official approach places the Blaugrana in a diplomatically awkward position, having effectively allowed their interest to become public without establishing a direct line of communication with Inter.
Bastoni, who has been central to Inter’s defensive structure in recent seasons, is contracted with the Nerazzurri until 2028. That long-term deal considerably strengthens Inter’s bargaining position and, according to reports, the club are only prepared to consider offers exceeding €70 million for the defender.
That asking price presents a significant obstacle for Barcelona given their well-documented financial constraints. The Catalan club have faced ongoing budgetary pressures in recent transfer windows and would need to engineer substantial player sales or financial restructuring to meet Inter’s valuation.
Bastoni has been a cornerstone of Inter’s success during a dominant period for the club, having won the Serie A title twice with the Milanese outfit. His ability to play out from the back and contribute to build-up play has made him one of the most coveted centre-backs in European football, attracting attention from clubs beyond Barcelona.
With the summer transfer window approaching, the situation is likely to develop further. Inter’s firm public stance, however, sets a clear precedent: any serious pursuit of Bastoni must begin with a direct and formal offer, rather than speculation filtered through the press.
