Liverpool presented with transfer opportunity as 'unhappy' Barcelona ready to U-turn

Liverpool may have a clear run to sign Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni, should they choose to make a move for the star. The Italian international recently celebrated winning his third Serie A title.

Advertisement

Despite his success, he has also been linked with a move to Barcelona at the end of the campaign. Arne Slot's side have also been mentioned as an interested party, but challenging the Catalans for his signature would be difficult.

However, reports from Spain are suggesting Hansi Flick's side are cooling their interest in the left-footed central defender. If this is the case, Liverpool may have a free run at trying to sign him.

Danny Murphy says Liverpool signing hasn't worked and wants him replaced with Newcastle star

Liverpool told 'star' Endrick is within reach as Reds can exploit Kylian Mbappe problem

FOLLOW OUR LIVERPOOL FC FACEBOOK PAGE! All the latest news and analysis from Anfield on the Liverpool Echo's dedicated LFC Facebook page

According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Bastoni may not quite fit the profile Flick is looking for. It claims the German boss is after a left-footed central defender, which the Italian is.

Advertisement

However, he is also after a player who has strong recovery speed, with the Catalans deploying a terrifying high line. In January, Bastoni was reportedly contacted by the club.

It was also understood he was more than interested about the prospect of playing at the Camp Nou. However, if Flick has moved the goal posts, as has been claimed, his chances of a move to the Blaugrana will be slim.

However, he may just be the player Slot is looking for. Liverpool lack left-footed central defenders and, according to Football Insider, Bastoni has been eyed as a potential transfer option.

Advertisement

In addition, recent central defensive acquisitions Giovanni Leoni and Jeremy Jacquet will go into next season having come off the back of significant, season ending injuries. The two young central defenders are also ones for the future while Bastoni, at 27 years old, is ready-made to make an immediate impact.

Inter could be difficult negotiators, should the Reds make a move. Piero Ausilio, Inter's sporting director, recently said: "We haven't received any offers for Bastoni. He's a valuable player for Inter and for Italy, a strong player, an incredible footballer, and we want him to stay."

Bastoni has 43 international caps for his country and has won Serie A under Antonio Conte, Simone Inzaghi and, most recently, Cristian Chivu.

Advertisement

Meanwhile, it's understood Ibrahima Konate is close to agreeing a new contract at Liverpool. Konate had been rumoured to be a transfer target for Real Madrid, who were said to be looking to capitalise on his deal expiring this summer by signing him as a free transfer.

Click here to read article