Liverpool have appointed Andoni Iraola as Arne Slot’s successor and are wasting no time in identifying targets for a significant summer squad overhaul.
The Reds are reportedly keen on Inter Milan centre-back Alessandro Bastoni, with the Italian international identified as a top priority to strengthen their defensive options.
Reports from Fichajes suggest Liverpool view Bastoni as the ideal candidate to address growing concerns about their central defensive depth heading into next season.
The need for reinforcement has become clear following Ibrahima Konate’s departure as a free agent, leaving the backline looking threadbare in terms of quality options.
Virgil van Dijk, while still an important figure at Anfield, has another year remaining on his contract and has shown a noticeable dip from the exceptional standards he previously set.
With Giovanni Leoni currently injured and Joe Gomez the only other first-team option available at centre-back, Liverpool’s defensive situation demands urgent attention this summer.
Inter Milan are expected to demand around £60 million for Bastoni’s services, a figure Liverpool appear willing to meet given the calibre of player on offer.
At 28 years old, Bastoni brings a blend of experience and elite-level quality that would make him an immediate starter at Anfield, justifying the hefty investment required to sign him.
The Italian defender is highly regarded for his ability with the ball at his feet, producing line-breaking passes and accurate diagonal balls alongside strong defensive fundamentals.
His reading of the game, accurate intercepting, solid tackling, and aerial prowess make him one of the finest defenders in world football over the last several seasons.
Bastoni would serve not only as a reliable partner for Van Dijk during the upcoming campaign but also represents a credible long-term replacement for Liverpool’s skipper down the line.
With Italy failing to qualify for the World Cup, Bastoni will be available throughout the summer, potentially allowing Iraola to fast-track his arrival ahead of pre-season preparations.
Liverpool will be eager to get the deal done early so that one of their most important prospective signings can bed into the new setup before the season begins.