Liverpool preparing to hijack Barcelona's £90m summer move for 'perfect player'

Liverpool and Barcelona could reportedly become embroiled in a bidding war for a world-class defender who has impressed at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Despite signing Giovanni Leoni from Serie A side Parma in the summer of 2025 and being set to welcome Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes next season, it appears that Arne Slot may also add a more experienced campaigner to his squad ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season.

With Virgil van Dijk likely approaching the end of his time with the Reds in the coming seasons, while Ibrahima Konate’s current contract is set to expire following the 2025/26 campaign, there may be space for recruits to come into Liverpool’s defence.

Liverpool academy graduate Jarell Quansah has been linked with a potential return to his boyhood club after impressing in the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen since his £35 million switch last summer.

However, the Reds may look to replace Konate, should he depart, with a more experienced defender who boasts experience at the highest level.

As reported by CaughtOffside, Inter and Italy centre-back Alessandro Bastoni is of interest to the Reds, while Barcelona, who see the defender as a perfect fit for their playing style, and Arsenal are also keen on the 26-year-old.

Alessandro Bastoni has impressed at Inter (Credit:Getty)

Bastoni, who is contracted to the Serie A giants until June 2028, has made 291 appearances for the Nerazzurri since arriving from Atalanta in 2017.

The defender has also earned 41 caps for his country and formed part of the UEFA Euro 2020-winning side, although he only appeared once during the tournament.

According to CaughtOffside, Inter would consider offers between €90–100 million (£78.5–87.7 million).

Chelsea and Manchester City are also reportedly monitoring the player’s situation, while Inter are keen for Bastoni to extend his contract until at least 2030.

Bastoni fits the profile of a modern ball-playing defender and is known for his passing ability, which has earned him 30 assists since arriving at Inter.

Speaking in 2024, Bastoni revealed that he modelled his game on Real Madrid and Germany defender Antonio Rüdiger and admitted that he tries to “imitate him”.

Inter are currently top of Serie A, 10 points clear of second-placed AC Milan.