Over a remarkably busy 24-hour spell, Liverpool supporters have been met with a flood of intriguing transfer developments. David Ornstein’s revelation that the club is exploring defensive midfield options abroad emerged almost simultaneously with new claims linking the Reds to Inter Milan’s standout centre-back Alessandro Bastoni.
The timing of these reports has fuelled widespread discussion among fans, many of whom believe Arne Slot may be preparing for a significant reshaping of the defence ahead of the next transfer window.
A move for Bastoni would mark one of Liverpool’s most ambitious pursuits in recent years. Indykaila News has claimed that Liverpool have already made an enquiry and that “talks have started between all parties,” even suggesting Bastoni is open to joining the Merseyside club. Although Indykaila’s reliability often divides opinion, they have produced accurate early scoops before — which keeps this rumour alive for supporters seeking clues.
The context surrounding Inter Milan adds another layer to the speculation. The club recently changed ownership, with Oaktree Capital Management taking control following financial problems under Suning Holdings. With debts to tackle and the need to stabilise their financial landscape, the new ownership might entertain offers for high-value players, placing Bastoni among those who could realistically be sold if a substantial bid arrives.
From a footballing perspective, Bastoni appears an ideal match for Liverpool’s style. While his aerial statistics might raise concerns for some fans, his positional awareness, composure on the ball, and technical precision outweigh that drawback. Compared to Liverpool’s emerging defender Jarell Quansah — who excels in pure defensive actions — Bastoni stands out as a progressive, creative outlet from the back.
FBref data highlights his quality emphatically: he ranks in the 95th percentile or above for several key metrics, including assists (95th), expected assisted goals (99th), shot-creating actions (99th), progressive passes (97th), and progressive carries (97th). These numbers showcase his ability to advance play, break lines, and contribute to build-up phases — attributes Liverpool value highly in a left-sided centre-back.
However, acquiring him would be far from cheap. With a market value close to €70 million and a contract that runs until 2028, Inter will demand a premium fee. His wage expectations are also likely to be significant, though Liverpool’s need for a technically gifted left-footed defender may justify such an investment.
For now, fans should treat the rumour with cautious optimism. Until more reputable insiders such as Ornstein or Paul Joyce corroborate the story, its credibility remains uncertain. Nonetheless, if Liverpool do manage to secure Bastoni, he could become a transformative addition to their defensive structure and overall build-up play — making this saga one worth monitoring closely.
