Barcelona’s dressing room has recently witnessed an unexpected development, placing the club’s management in a delicate position and accelerating several steps that had quietly been under consideration.
The sporting planning team, headed by Deco and guided clearly by Joan Laporta, found itself at a pivotal moment, which prompted the activation of a previously postponed project that has now become a top priority.
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Amid technical transitions and a forward-looking defensive vision, it has become clear that Barcelona is not merely seeking temporary replacements, but is instead focused on building a long-term project at the back.
The official departure of defender Iñigo Martínez to the Saudi League not only left a void in the center-back position but also acted as a direct signal to initiate the 2026 plan.
According to reliable sources, the club has identified one name at the top of its defensive signing list: Alessandro Bastoni, the Inter Milan star and currently one of the best defenders in Europe.
Bastoni, a left-footed defender, combines excellent defensive skills with offensive vision in building plays, and he brings extensive experience in both the Champions League and other continental competitions.
Barcelona’s defensive blueprint revolves around rising star Pau Cubarsí, who is viewed internally as the club’s defensive leader for the next decade. However, the club understands that Cubarsí needs a top-level partner alongside him, someone with solidity, composure, and experience. That’s where Bastoni fits in perfectly as the ideal candidate to fill that role.
Although signing Bastoni is a clear technical priority, the process will be far from easy.
The Italian defender is under contract with Inter until 2028 and remains a central figure in coach Chivu’s project. His market value exceeds €70 million, an amount that poses a challenge for a club still operating under Financial Fair Play restrictions.
Nevertheless, Barcelona’s management is betting on time and the player’s desire. Bastoni has previously hinted at an openness to explore new experiences outside Italy. A potential partnership with Cubarsí in central defense, combined with Flick’s evolving project, could serve as a strong incentive for him to make the move.
For now, Hansi Flick may rely on Andreas Christensen as a temporary solution to fill Martínez’s shoes. However, the club’s sporting plan is clear:
Bastoni is the primary target for the summer of 2026, and preparations are already underway to explore all possible scenarios to complete the deal on time.
This pursuit of Bastoni is not just a seasonal signing but rather a strategic investment in the team’s long-term defensive strength.
The club’s vision is crystal clear: to build a solid backline led by Cubarsí and Bastoni, forming the cornerstone of Barcelona’s next generation.
In light of these developments, it seems that Iñigo’s departure was not the end of an era but rather the beginning of a new and more ambitious chapter.
