Liverpool set sights on Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni as next defensive linchpin

Liverpool aren’t hanging about. With Jeremy Jacquet already locked in for the summer, the Reds are still primed to add another big-hitter at centre-half — and Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni is the name doing the rounds. TEAMtalk say the club are exploring options, with a top-class defender targeted to make an instant impact.

Why Bastoni is on Liverpool’s radar

Bastoni has been one of Europe’s most reliable modern centre-backs since landing at San Siro in 2017, chalking up close to 300 outings for Inter. Under contract until 2028 and routinely labelled ‘world-class’, the Italy international is understood to be open to a move after the World Cup — the sort of window Liverpool would happily exploit if the opportunity presents itself.

Journalist chatter suggests Liverpool will prioritise centre-back this summer and, crucially, that Bastoni is a situation to monitor. Read between the lines and you sense the player is intrigued by a summer switch, with Liverpool positioned to act should the door swing open.

The Anfield fit

This is where it gets tasty. Left-sided, composed, and a natural distributor, Bastoni pings diagonals for fun and steps into midfield with the assurance of a playmaker. He relishes the ugly stuff too — front-foot defending, recovery runs, and aerial duels — exactly the profile for Liverpool’s aggressive shape. Bastoni would be a statement signing who elevates the present and safeguards the future.

With Virgil van Dijk expected to marshal the back line for at least another season and uncertainty lingering over Ibrahima Konaté and Joe Gomez, Bastoni could partner the skipper now and take the baton long-term. Jacquet’s arrival remains a smart investment for tomorrow, but Liverpool need someone ready to dominate today.

Squad context and urgency

Giovanni Leoni’s long-term knee issue only sharpens the need for another senior defender. Depth has been tested, and Liverpool can’t afford to be a knock or two away from a crisis when silverware is in play. Bastoni doesn’t just plug a gap; he changes the level of the unit.

The transfer picture

Inter won’t roll over — a prime-age, elite defender on a long deal always commands a premium — but every club has its price. If Bastoni signals he’s ready for a new challenge, Liverpool have the pull, the project, and the platform. Keep an eye on this one; it’s got all the hallmarks of a summer saga.

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Bottom line

Liverpool have done the groundwork with Jacquet, but the message is clear: the defence needs another pillar. If Bastoni’s camp opens the door, expect the Reds to be at the front of the queue. Anfield wants presence, personality and pedigree at centre-back — and the Inter man ticks the lot.