Real Madrid have made their interest in Inter centre-back Alessandro Bastoni clear, but a concrete move will only materialise once new head coach José Mourinho gives the go-ahead, reports from Italy claim.
The La Liga giants used a recent charity event between the two clubs’ legends to discreetly register their desire to sign the 27-year-old Italian international, setting the stage for what could become one of the summer’s major transfer sagas.
The Initial Contact
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Real Madrid executives used a star‑studded charity match in Madrid to inform Inter vice‑president Javier Zanetti and president Beppe Marotta of their intentions. The Nerazzurri leadership was told, in no uncertain terms, that Los Blancos are closely monitoring Bastoni’s situation — and that any future deal would require meeting the same €70 million valuation that was quoted to Barcelona only a few weeks ago.
“Real Madrid executives informed Inter about their interest during a recent charity event held in Madrid between the Merengues’ and the Nerazzurri legends,” the Italian daily reported.
Inter are in a solid financial position and have Bastoni tied to a long‑term deal until 2029, leaving the Serie A champions under no pressure to sell. The €70 million price tag is identical to the one set for Barça, signalling that while the club is willing to listen, there will be no discounts.
Mourinho’s Approval Awaited
Despite the initial approach, a formal bid has not yet been lodged. The reason is simple: Real Madrid are waiting for José Mourinho to finalise his internal review of the squad.
Mourinho, who returned to the Santiago Bernabéu hotseat earlier this month, is known for his meticulous defensive planning. Sources close to the club suggest he wants to assess the centre‑back options at his disposal — including the progress of younger talents — before green‑lighting a high‑profile signing.
“Mourinho has been clear with the board,” a Madrid‑based journalist told 90min. football. “He will not simply collect names. He needs to see the group in training and decide what profile of defender he truly needs.”
Bastoni’s left‑footed passing, composure under pressure and ability to operate in a high line make him a natural fit for Mourinho’s tactical templates, yet the Portuguese is refusing to be rushed. If the assessment reveals a gap, Real Madrid will likely move decisively.
Bastoni: A Wanted Man
The player’s agent, Tullio Tinti, offered a guarded but telling statement last week.
“In football, anything can happen. A player like Bastoni attracts interest from all the top clubs, but that’s not the issue. He is happy where he is. You never know what…”
The 27‑year‑old is coming off another successful campaign, having lifted the Coppa Italia as Inter completed a domestic double. He has blossomed into one of Europe’s finest left‑sided centre‑backs, and his combination of defensive steel and ball‑playing elegance has drawn admiring glances from across the continent.
Barcelona’s interest, though well‑documented, has cooled due to financial constraints, leaving Real Madrid as the most realistic — and wealthiest — suitor. Inter, however, remain adamant that their valuation must be met in full, and Bastoni himself has given no indication of pushing for a move.
Key Takeaways
- Real Madrid have confirmed their interest in Alessandro Bastoni to Inter during a charity event.
- Inter’s asking price is a firm €70 million, unchanged from the figure demanded of Barcelona.
- New manager José Mourinho will decide whether to push for a deal after assessing his current squad.
- Bastoni’s agent insists the player is happy at Inter, but top clubs are circling.
- The transfer saga is expected to intensify once Mourinho completes his internal review.
Quick Facts
Player: Alessandro Bastoni
Current Club: Inter Milan
Age: 27
Position: Centre‑back
Inter’s Asking Price: €70 million
Other Interested Clubs: Barcelona, Real Madrid
Contract Expiry: 2029
Source: Football Italia via La Gazzetta dello Sport