The sustained hostile reception directed at Alessandro Bastoni at away grounds since the Inter vs Juventus controversy could yet have consequences beyond the football pitch, with Tuttosport suggesting the uncomfortable climate may soften the Italy defender’s long-held resistance to leaving, amid links to Barcelona.
Until recently, Bastoni’s position had been unambiguous, as noted by Tuttosport, via FCInterNews.
He had consistently instructed his agent Tullio Tinti not to entertain proposals from outside the club.
Inter, for their part, have no desire to sell, viewing the Italian as one of the untouchable pillars of the squad, a player whose departure would fundamentally alter the left-sided chain that has been one of the team’s greatest strengths under both Inzaghi and Chivu.
Inter Rally Behind Bastoni As Barcelona Wait To Pounce
The support for Bastoni has been emphatic.
Chivu, the club, Gattuso and even opponents including Cesc Fabregas have rallied behind the defender publicly.
But Tuttosport report that the prolonged hostile atmosphere at away grounds is beginning to open a small window that had previously been firmly shut.
Barcelona have been courting him for some time and believe that window may be widening.
Any sale would require an offer difficult to refuse, Tuttosport suggest a figure in the region of €60-70 million, and even at that level, Inter would be deeply reluctant.
The deal remains improbable. But the combination of Barcelona’s persistence and an increasingly uncomfortable environment for Bastoni in Italian football means the situation bears watching as the summer approaches.