Liverpool Set to Bid £63million for Inter Milan Star to Strengthen Defence | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Alessandro Bastoni for Summer Transfer Push

Liverpool’s bid to continue building a squad capable of competing at the highest level is set to gather pace this summer, with defensive reinforcements a clear priority. As reported by Fichajes, Liverpool are ready to make a €75million (£63m, $82m) offer for Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni, a player viewed as a key piece in strengthening the Reds’ defensive setup under manager Arne Slot.

Bastoni’s Value to Liverpool’s Defence

At just 25 years old, Bastoni is already considered one of the top defenders in Europe. His performances in Serie A and in European competitions for Inter Milan have drawn widespread admiration. As former Inter star Andrea Ranocchia described him, Bastoni is “the best defender in Italy and among the best in Europe for his age.” His physicality, technical ability, and composure on the ball align perfectly with Slot’s tactical approach at Anfield.

Photo: IMAGO

With Virgil van Dijk’s contract situation at Liverpool up in the air and the possibility of Ibrahima Konaté also leaving, strengthening the defence is clearly on Slot’s agenda. Bastoni, with his experience of winning Serie A and competing in the Champions League, would be an ideal fit for Liverpool, both in terms of his ability to impact immediately and his potential to be a cornerstone of the defence for years to come.

Interest From Across Europe

The competition for Bastoni is stiff. With Inter Milan’s resurgence under Simone Inzaghi, selling one of their key defenders, especially with the possibility of winning Serie A or the Champions League, is a difficult proposition. Despite this, Liverpool’s readiness to make a significant bid indicates the club’s ambition to return to the top, bolstering their defence with a player who can stand tall on the biggest stages.

Sources close to the situation also indicate that Liverpool are not alone in their pursuit of Bastoni. Clubs such as Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Tottenham have reportedly shown interest in the Italy international. However, it is Liverpool who are seemingly in the best position to secure his services, with Slot’s tactical vision likely making the Merseyside club an attractive proposition for Bastoni.

Liverpool’s Broader Transfer Plans

In addition to Bastoni, Fichajes reports that Liverpool have set their sights on other key targets, including Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez and RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons. According to the report, Liverpool are prepared to make a €150million (£126m, $164m) bid for Alvarez, with a €75million offer also on the table for Simons. While these claims should be taken with a degree of caution, the ongoing interest from Liverpool in these players is noteworthy, as the club looks to strengthen both their attack and midfield in the summer.

Photo IMAGO

These signings, if completed, would further solidify Liverpool’s squad for the future, providing the club with both experienced leaders and young, dynamic talents to keep them competitive for years to come.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The pursuit of Alessandro Bastoni is an exciting prospect for Liverpool. The defensive unit, while solid, has shown signs of needing fresh energy and quality, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Van Dijk’s future. Bastoni’s potential arrival would be a massive statement, not only strengthening the defence immediately but also securing a player capable of growing into a key figure at the club for the next decade.

However, the competition for Bastoni’s signature cannot be underestimated. Liverpool must act decisively and quickly to secure the Italian defender’s services. With a reported €75million bid, Liverpool will need to meet Inter Milan’s asking price, but they must also navigate the interest of other top clubs, particularly as Bastoni is a player who can contribute to a squad aiming to challenge for the biggest trophies in Europe.

Beyond Bastoni, the targets of Alvarez and Simons are promising, and their potential additions would add attacking flair and creativity to the squad. However, the priority should be on securing defensive reinforcements first. As much as Liverpool’s attacking options have been a talking point, the ability to withstand pressure at the back is crucial for any team aiming to compete for the title, both domestically and in Europe.

Ultimately, Liverpool’s transfer window will set the tone for their long-term aspirations. By landing players like Bastoni, and reinforcing their squad in key areas, they can solidify their place as genuine challengers for Premier League and European glory.