Alessandro Bastoni’s agent says talks over a new contract for the defender are on hold but insists there should be no problem agreeing a deal.

Inter are lining up a new four-year deal for Bastoni according to reports today in the the Italian media, which would tie the Italy international to the Nerazzurri until 2025.

Bastoni, who is currently under contract with the club until 2023, is expected to receive a salary increase as part of the new contract, but it looks like he will have to wait before putting pen to paper due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Talks are on hold at the moment because there is a general economic situation which is not the best,” the centre-back’s agent Tulio Tinti explained in an interview with Italian radio station Rai Radio 1 Sport.

“It is not the time to negotiate renewals, so we will wait but there are no problems, the player is happy and he can also wait.”

Tinti sang the praises of his client following Bastoni’s impressive performance in Sunday’s Derby d’Italia against Juventus, tipping the 21-year-old for a successful career and making a very demanding comparison.

“He is a special player,” Tinti assured.

“I’ve never seen anyone play at his level at his age, except perhaps Paolo Maldini.

“He has a bright future in front of him and he deserves it.”

This season Bastoni has made 21 appearances across all competitions for Inter, in which he has provided three assists for his teammates, one of which came for Nicolo Barella last weekend.