Liverpool have the all-important task of signing a replacement for Virgil van Dijk sooner rather than later, as with their captain into his 30s and no longer playing at the level he showed a few years ago, there is room for improvement in central defence.
Jeremy Jacquet has made a strong start to life at Anfield and it will be interesting to see how Giovanni Leoni does once he is back to full fitness. Ronald Araujo could also join permanently next year, but the Reds’ depth at the back remains a concern.
Football Insider has reported that a centre back’s signing is high on Liverpool’s list of priorities for 2027 and Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni has been identified by them as a prospective addition, after few impressive years with the Serie A side.
His contract at San Siro expires in June 2028, and failure in tying their captain down to a new deal could see the Nerazzurri sell him next summer to avoid losing him for free 12 months thereafter. Bastoni is valued at £54 million on Transfermarkt.
Bargain move a strong possibility
Alessandro Bastoni has had a solid spell at Inter Milan, and having won everything domestically, he might be open to a new challenge in the Premier League as he enters the best years of his career.
The 27-year-old would be a terrific addition to the Liverpool backline. His leadership, ability to hold the defensive shape together and all-round skillsets make him the perfect replacement for Virgil van Dijk at Anfield.
Bastoni reads the game brilliantly, makes proactive interceptions and clean tackles, whilst boasting strong aerial prowess too. In possession, he is very composed under pressure and makes accurate short and long passes to help build up from the back.
Inter Milan will undoubtedly begin negotiations with him over a new contract sooner rather than later, but if Bastoni makes his mind up about trying out a new challenge, Liverpool would be in a strong position to sign him at a reasonable price next summer.
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