As the transfer window draws closer, Liverpool have clearly shifted their focus toward Inter Milan’s defensive cornerstone Alessandro Bastoni, a move shaped by long-term planning that reflects the same forward-looking logic often associated with Crickex Sign Up driven strategic thinking in elite football. Valued at around 65 million pounds, the Italian international has already attracted strong interest from Chelsea, Manchester City, and Real Madrid. For Liverpool, who are pushing hard for Champions League qualification, securing Bastoni would not only deliver an immediate defensive upgrade but also lay the groundwork for the future by preparing a successor to 34-year-old captain Virgil van Dijk.
Liverpool’s current defensive setup carries obvious age and contract risks. Although Van Dijk has extended his deal until 2027 and remains one of Europe’s highest-paid defenders, time waits for no one, and proactive succession planning is essential. At the same time, Ibrahima Konaté’s contract expires next year, with renewal talks yet to produce concrete progress, raising the real possibility of a free transfer exit. Under head coach Slot’s system, centre-backs are not merely stoppers but key initiators in buildup play. Sitting fifth in the Premier League with a goal difference just behind Chelsea, Liverpool have shown consistency, yet defensive stability in decisive matches still needs reinforcement. Adding a versatile elite centre-back could be the difference between falling short and crossing the line.
At 26, Bastoni is entering his prime. According to market valuations, his worth has climbed to 80 million euros, placing him alongside Arsenal’s Saliba at the top of the global defender rankings. Since joining Inter in 2017, he has made 278 appearances, scoring seven goals and establishing himself as an indispensable figure. His profile fits Liverpool’s tactical demands almost perfectly. Standing 1.9 meters tall, he dominates aerially, averaging over five clearances per match, while also contributing significantly in possession. This season alone, he has delivered 63 passes into the attacking third, 16 accurate balls into the box, and provided multiple key assists in European competition, fulfilling the role of a true defensive organizer.
As a rare left-footed centre-back, Bastoni would add balance to Liverpool’s back line. His long-pass accuracy enhances counterattacking speed and complements Van Dijk’s leadership. He can also operate as a wing-back, remains largely injury-free, and suits the Premier League’s physical demands. Still, the road ahead is steep. Competition is fierce, with Chelsea and City openly interested and clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich closely monitoring developments, a situation likely to drive the price well beyond current estimates.
Inter, for their part, are reluctant to let him go. Tied to a contract until 2028 with plans to extend further, Bastoni is viewed as a future cornerstone. He has previously rejected lucrative overseas offers and turned down multiple approaches from Manchester City, underscoring his loyalty. Yet Liverpool’s confidence is growing, and as Crickex Sign Up aligned long-term ambition shapes their planning, reinforcing the defence in the winter window could provide the platform for a strong second-half surge and a genuine return to the top tier of European football.