Barcelona press pause on key defensive target’s pursuit to prioritise striker signing

However, no offer has yet arrived, leaving the Italian side increasingly eager for clarity.

Barcelona, on their part, have already communicated their interest clearly to Bastoni’s camp and are said to have outlined the structure of a possible five-year agreement with the defender.

From the player’s side, there continues to be a strong willingness to complete the move. Still, the decisive stage, negotiations between clubs, has not properly begun.

The Catalan side is aware that any major defensive investment must fit carefully within their financial structure, especially with striker recruitment currently taking priority internally.

Reports in Italy even suggest Inter are looking for a transfer package close to €60 million, although Barcelona do not view that figure as realistic under their current conditions.

Barcelona have paused the Bastoni operation. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)

Instead, Barça are believed to be exploring formulas involving player exchanges in order to reduce the overall cost of the operation.

Could become risky if delay continues

Barcelona’s handling of the Bastoni situation could backfire for the Blaugrana at any given point.

On one hand, the club see the Italian international as an ideal long-term addition. At the same time, however, Barcelona cannot afford to rush into expensive operations without first resolving other priorities.

The striker position currently dominates the planning following Robert Lewandowski’s departure, meaning defensive reinforcements have temporarily moved lower in the order of urgency.