Liverpool are reportedly aware what it will take to sign Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni during the summer transfer window.
While the Merseyside giants sit at the top of the Premier League table, it is becoming increasingly clear that a busy summer in the market is on the horizon.
Widespread reports have indicated that Trent Alexander-Arnold will be departing Anfield, but Arne Slot's most pressing concern will be regarding the middle of his backline.
Virgil van Dijk has just over two months remaining on his contract, while Ibrahima Konate is yet to commit to a deal longer than 2026.
Joe Gomez continues to suffer injury issues and provides backup to other positions, with Jarell Quansah being tipped for a loan spell away from the club in 2025-26.
© Imago
What is Inter's stance on Bastoni?
According to Fichajes, Inter Milan have set an asking price for Bastoni in the event that Liverpool back up their alleged interest.
The report suggests that the Italy international will be available for a fee of £60m, a figure that emphasises his importance at San Siro.
As well as making 242 appearances for Inter since signing in 2017, Bastoni also has five goals and 23 assists to his name.
Furthermore, the 25-year-old has lifted seven pieces of silverware, including two Serie A titles, and Inter are currently in the hunt for another top-flight crown and the Champions League.
With a contract until 2028, Bastoni is tied to Inter in the long term, but it is not beyond the realms of possibility that club officials could look to generate a mammoth fee for his signature at some stage.
© Imago
A realistic option?
As it stands, it remains to be seen where Bastoni sees his immediate future given the success that he has had at Inter and level of importance that he has earned.
On the flip side, either succeeding or joining forces with Van Dijk at Anfield may appeal to a player currently regarded as one of the best in his position in world football.
Much will depend on Slot's transfer budget for the summer. While it is clear that Liverpool need at least one new centre-back, they must also strengthen at right-back and in the final third.
Darren Plant
