Liverpool are reportedly preparing an £88 million offer for Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni as questions continue to swirl around Ibrahima Konate’s future.
The Reds, who are planning another defensive rebuild, see the Italian international as a long-term solution at the back.
The move comes amid uncertainty over Konate’s contract situation and recent injuries within the squad. Arne Slot is said to be eager to bring in a reliable partner for Virgil van Dijk, someone who could eventually take over leadership duties in defense.
And Bastoni — cool under pressure, composed on the ball, and strong in duels — fits the bill perfectly.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Liverpool have already identified the 26-year-old as their top target and are ready to test Inter Milan’s resolve with a hefty £88 million bid next summer.
Inter won’t sell easily
Bastoni remains a key part of Inter’s setup and is tied to the club until 2028. Reports from Il Giorno suggest he earns around €5.5 million per year, placing him among the club’s top earners.
Inter, however, are reportedly reluctant to sell. Club sources have described the Italian defender as “untouchable,” emphasizing that Bastoni is central to their long-term plans.
Inter president Beppe Marotta recently underlined the club’s position, saying:
“For the first time, we’ve closed the year in the black; this is a historic achievement, and not a coincidence.”
“The club has shown foresight and managed to move forward with clear guidelines and objectives.”
While Inter’s stance appears firm, Liverpool’s financial muscle could make things interesting. The Premier League side have already shown they’re not afraid to spend big when the right player becomes available — and with Konate’s contract yet to be resolved, the Reds may have little choice but to act boldly again.
A future without Konate for Liverpool?
Liverpool’s interest in Bastoni also raises questions about Konate’s long-term future. Talks over a new deal have reportedly slowed, and top European clubs are watching closely with the Reds already presenting a new offer to the Frenchman.
If the 26-year-old decides to move on, Bastoni could be the ideal replacement — a left-footed defender comfortable playing in a high line and capable of starting attacks from deep.
Bastoni’s form this season further strengthens his case. In Serie A and the Champions League combined, he’s already produced 4 assists and a goal across 13 appearances — not bad for a center-back who spends more time breaking lines than breaking sweat.
For Liverpool fans, the thought of a Bastoni–Van Dijk partnership is mouth-watering. It’s the kind of defensive pairing that could leave strikers seeing red — just not the Liverpool kind.
Alessandro Bastoni stats this season so far
| Competition | Games | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Serie A | 10 | 1 | 3 | 866 |
| Champions League | 3 | 0 | 1 | 239 |
| Total | 13 | 1 | 4 | 1,105 |