Inter Milan responds to Real Madrid’s interest in signing Bastoni

Italian club insists they are not looking to sell despite growing interest from Europe’s giants

Inter Milan president Giuseppe Marotta has moved to cool speculation surrounding Alessandro Bastoni, amid increasing links to both Barcelona and Real Madrid ahead of the summer transfer window.

In recent weeks, Bastoni has been heavily rumored as a potential target for Europe’s elite. While Barcelona were said to have turned down the chance to sign him, several reports claim he is one of José Mourinho’s top defensive priorities for a possible Real Madrid rebuild. However, Marotta’s latest comments suggest that any deal will be far from straightforward.

“I think our fans can be calm about Bastoni’s situation. He has never asked to leave, he’s very happy here, and we are not a selling club. I believe Bastoni will stay with us,” Marotta told DAZN.

While not an outright refusal, his statement makes one thing clear: Inter would only consider a sale if a truly significant offer arrives—and even then, they are under no pressure to negotiate.

The Pull of Real Madrid

Bastoni remains under contract with Inter until June 2028 and is fully settled in Italy. Still, the opportunity to play for Real Madrid is something few players can ignore. Interest from the Spanish giants naturally sparks excitement, even for someone comfortable at his current club.

That said, any move would require a major financial commitment. Bastoni’s market value is estimated at around €70 million, a figure that could complicate negotiations—especially given Madrid’s recent cautious approach in the transfer market.

Defensive Reinforcements on the Way

Real Madrid are determined to strengthen their defense this summer. With David Alaba expected to depart and Éder Militão struggling with recurring injuries, reinforcements are seen as essential.

Even with Antonio Rüdiger likely to stay for another season, the German cannot be relied upon to carry the defensive line alone due to age and physical demands. As a result, Madrid are planning to sign at least one, if not two, center-backs to raise the overall level of the squad.

Bastoni is high on the shortlist, but he’s not the only option. The club continues to monitor several defenders who could emerge as more viable targets depending on price and availability.

For now, there’s no urgency. Real Madrid’s presidential elections on June 7—and an upcoming international tournament—mean that key decisions will be delayed. Until then, Bastoni’s future remains open, but firmly in Inter’s hands.