- Man Utd now eyeing Alessandro Bastoni
- Barcelona eager to sign Inter Milan star
- Why the Red Devils shouldn’t pursue
Manchester United have reportedly set their sights on Barcelona target Alessandro Bastoni ahead of the summer transfer window. The Inter Milan defender is thought to be on the club’s shortlist.
Reports from Spain claim that United are now eyeing Bastoni while Liverpool are also admirers. The Italian could be one to watch this summer, with Barca also trying to secure his signature.
Bastoni is one of Europe’s most highly-rated central defenders, who has been a rock at the heart of Inter’s defence. This season, he’s made 40 appearances across competitions, posting two goals and six assists.7
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Man Utd want to sign Bastoni
The report claims that Inter might be prepared to sell for around €70 million. That works in United’s favour because Barca’s financial situation makes such a fee difficult for them to afford.
That said, signing an elite-level centre-back shouldn’t be the club’s top priority this summer. The main focus needs to be on a hefty midfield rebuild that starts with replacing Casemiro.
The Brazilian is leaving when his contract expires in June and he’ll be a huge loss. Manuel Ugarte could also be headed for the exit door amid a frustrating spell at Old Trafford.
Bastoni is undoubtedly an excellent defender who could be a game-changing signing for the Reds. But so too could the likes of Aurelien Tchouameni or Elliot Anderson and it’s in midfield where the biggest sums of money must be spent by INEOS.
United have strong depth in central defence and the only reason to swoop for a new defender is if a market opportunity comes up. An example of this is Marcos Senesi who is leaving Bournemouth as a free agent.
Not needed for such a huge fee
One reason United might be looking to sign a new centre-back is Matthijs de Ligt’s injury. The Dutch defender has been absent since December and confirmed earlier this month that he’s undergone surgery.
Lisandro Martinez’s fitness remains a concern as he tends to pick up an issue after every five or so games. But Ayden Heaven stepped up in the Argentine’s absence, putting in superb performances alongside Harry Maguire.
Leny Yoro is another option in central defence as is Godwill Kukonki whose displays for United’s U21’s can’t go without mention. Bastoni is a great defender but for such a big price, isn’t worth it given the club’s current squad and the need for at least two new central midfielders.
