The European transfer mill has been set ablaze following a candid admission from one of Inter Milan's most vital "untouchables."
Amidst persistent reports linking him with a move to FC Barcelona, Italian international defender Alessandro Bastoni has finally addressed the speculation.
Speaking at a press conference on December 18, 2025, ahead of the Italian Super Cup semi-final clash between Inter and Bologna, the 26-year-old center-back didn't shy away from the Blaugrana buzz.
"I Read the Rumours Too"
When asked about the reports originating from Spain—which suggest Barcelona Sporting Director Deco has identified him as the dream partner for Pau Cubars×Bastoni offered a measured but revealing response.
"These rumours make me feel proud," Bastoni told reporters. "Just like you read them, I read them too. It means I am doing well, but there is nothing to it right now."
While he acknowledged the flattery of being linked to a historic club like Barcelona, he was quick to reaffirm his commitment to the Nerazzurri:
"I am very happy at Inter. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—this club is my home. My focus is entirely on the Super Cup and the goals we have for this season."
The "Impossible" Dream?
Despite Bastoni’s polite deflection, the "pride" he feels in the interest is exactly what Barcelona fans were hoping to hear.
However, the path to a transfer remains incredibly steep for several reasons:
The Price Tag: Bastoni is currently valued at approximately €80 million. With a contract running until June 2028, Inter is under no pressure to sell their defensive cornerstone for anything less than a "world-record" fee for a defender.
Barcelona's Financial Balancing Act: While Hansi Flick reportedly views Bastoni as the "missing piece" to stabilize a defense that has occasionally looked shaky in high-stakes matches, the club must still navigate strict La Liga salary cap restrictions.
The "Lef-Footed" Priority: Barcelona is desperate for a natural left-footed center-back following the aging of Inigo MartÃnez. Bastoni is widely considered the best in the world in that specific profile.
Inter’s Stance
For Inter Milan, the stance remains firm: Bastoni is not for sale. Manager Simone Inzaghi considers the Italian indispensable to his system, especially given Bastoni's unique ability to carry the ball forward and function as an auxiliary playmaker from the back.
The Verdict
Bastoni’s comments are a classic "open door" in the world of football diplomacy. By admitting the rumours make him "proud," he has signaled that the interest is mutual in terms of respect, even if a move isn't imminent.
For now, the "Bastoni-to-Barca" saga remains a fantasy—but in football, today’s "nothing to it" often becomes tomorrow’s "Official Announcement."