Bastoni transfer speculation intensifies after Barcelona claims

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Lorenzo Bettoni | Last updated Feb 20, 2026 5:58 AM ET

Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí praises Inter star Alessandro Bastoni who has been linked with a move to Cataluyna while the Blaugrana President Joan Laporta insists the club is ready to make a major signing this summer.

Inter defender Bastoni has emerged as a transfer target for La Liga giants Barcelona and recent claims from Cataluyna have intensified speculation over the Italian centre-back’s future.

‘Bastoni a spectacular centre-back’

MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 09: Alessandro Bastoni of Internazionale acknowledges the fans following the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí praised Bastoni during an interview with Mundo Deportivo, suggesting that the Inter star would fit in well at the Camp Nou, especially with the Catalans looking for a left-footed defender.

“Yes, he’s a spectacular centre-back. I’ve seen him a few times, and we all know his level,” Cubarsí said.

“But that depends on the people upstairs. I think we have spectacular centre-backs and we’re very happy with the work we’re all doing at the back.”

Calciomercato.com confirms Barcelona’s interest in Bastoni, particularly after that President Joan Laporta said the club is ready to make a big signing in the summer, if necessary.

BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Alessandro Bastoni of Italy in action during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)

Laporta has run again in the presidential elections taking place on March 15, 2026.

Bastoni, 26, has one goal and six assists in 31 appearances across all competitions with Inter this season.

His contract at the Stadio Meazza runs out in June 2028.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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