Barcelona set sights on Serie A heavyweight as potential replacement for exit-linked captain | OneFootball

Barcelona’s recent defeat to Inter Milan has intensified question marks on Ronald Araujo’s future at the club.

The Uruguayan international has faced immense criticism in recent weeks due to his performances and it is apparent that he has fallen behind Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez in the pecking order.

With a special release clause of €70 million applicable for the first ten days of July, there is a possibility that the defender may leave Barcelona in the coming summer.

Barcelona identify Alessandro Bastoni

As Barcelona look to shore up their defence amid the potential exit of Araujo, the club appear to have already identified an ideal target.

According to Fichajes, Barcelona are eyeing a move for Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni as a potential replacement for Araujo next season.

The club, led by sporting director Deco, are closely monitoring the Italian international. The club believe Bastoni provides the ideal profile the team needs at the moment.

Bastoni shone against Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Aged 26, Bastoni has ample experience at the highest level of football, having featured in over 200 Serie A matches. His experience, coupled with his leadership, make him an ideal target for Barça.

Bastoni notably starred against Barcelona as Inter Milan secured a memorable 7-6 aggregate win over Hansi Flick’s men last week.

However, acquiring the services of Bastoni will not be straightforward as Inter Milan are not too keen on offloading the star, who has a contract until 2028.

The Italian giants have the leverage to demand a hefty fee for Bastoni. Therefore, unless Barcelona acquire significant capital from the sale of Araujo, it appears unlikely they will be able to muster a move for the Italian international.