Barcelona may be approaching the final stretch of the transfer window quietly, but the noise behind the scenes is anything but silent.
With less than two weeks left to add reinforcements, the Catalan giants appear content with their current squad, choosing stability over last-minute panic buys.
Hansi Flick has been encouraged by early signs from his team, while Pau Cubarsi continues to dazzle at the back, cementing himself as one of Europe’s brightest young defenders.
Even so, work never stops at Camp Nou. Barca’s hierarchy – from president Joan Laporta to sporting director Deco – are already deep in planning mode for the seasons ahead.
Long-term questions are mounting: who will eventually replace Robert Lewandowski, and which defenders are fit to build a future alongside Cubarsi?
The answer to one of those questions now seems clear.
According to Fichajes, Barcelona are preparing to make Inter Milan star Alessandro Bastoni their priority defensive signing for the 2026 summer transfer window.
The Italian international, just 26, has built a formidable reputation as one of Europe’s best left-footed centre-backs.
With two Serie A titles to his name and appearances in two Champions League finals, Alessandro Bastoni has consistently shown he can perform at the very top level.
His ability to bring the ball out from the back has caught Barcelona’s eye, with the club viewing him as the ideal partner for Cubarsi in the coming years.
Barca’s admiration for Bastoni has been long-standing, though Inter Milan are not prepared to let him go easily.
The Nerazzurri rejected a €50 million Chelsea bid this summer, standing firm in their commitment to their defensive lynchpin.
But come 2026, Bastoni will be entering the final two years of his contract, opening the door for Barcelona to make their move.
Of course, for this operation to succeed, sacrifices will be required.
Ronald Araujo has been mentioned as the potential casualty, should he fail to establish himself as an undisputed starter this season.
A significant sale could pave the way for Bastoni’s arrival.
The Blaugrana have already communicated their intentions to the player’s camp, making it clear he is a cornerstone target.
Bastoni mentioned Lamine Yamal as the toughest opponent he faced last season after the European giants came up against each other in UEFA Champions League semi-final.
Now, it may be a waiting game – one in which Barca hope patience will finally deliver Cubarsi’s perfect partner.
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