The president of Inter Milan, Giuseppe Marotta, has openly admitted to interest from FC Barcelona in their center back Alessandro Bastoni, but was quick to stress that no formal approach has been made.
Speaking on the growing speculation surrounding the defender’s future, Marotta acknowledged that the Spanish champions have shown admiration for the Italian defender.
However, he insisted that the situation remains far from advanced and lacks any concrete appeal. “I won’t deny there is interest from Barcelona, but it is still very superficial and not concrete.”
The comments come amid increasing reports linking the Italian international with a move away from the Nerazzurri, as several European heavyweights continue to monitor his performances closely.
Marotta added that the Serie A champions have a habit of allowing players who want to leave to go but Bastoni has shown no interest in leaving.
“As we’ve always said, a player leaves only if he expresses the desire to go. At the moment, he is our player, he wants to stay and we are happy with him.”
Giuseppe Marotta, President, Inter Milan
Bastoni’s Importance to Inter’s Dominance
Bastoni has been pivotal to Inter Milan this term, playing 38 games in all competitions so far. His influence has extended beyond defensive duties, with the center back directly contributing to 8 goals, scoring 2 and assisting 6 times.
His consistency at the back and composure in possession have been key elements in Inter’s dominant domestic campaign. The Nerazzurri have already wrapped up the Scudetto with three games to spare, opening up a commanding 12-point gap over second-placed Napoli.
The defender’s performances have not gone unnoticed across Europe. In addition to Barcelona, clubs such as Chelsea FC, Manchester City FC and Bayern Munich have all been credited with interest in securing his services.
Despite this attention, Inter remain calm about the situation, with Marotta’s comments reinforcing the club’s stance that no negotiations are currently underway. Bastoni himself has not indicated any desire to depart, a factor that significantly strengthens Inter’s position.
Marotta’s Influence at Inter Milan
Marotta’s leadership at the club has played a crucial role in restoring Inter Milan’s status among Europe’s elite. Since officially joining the club on 13 December 2018 as sporting CEO, he has overseen a period of sustained success and stability.
Under his guidance, Inter have secured multiple trophies, including the Scudetto titles in 2021, 2024, and in 2026 as well as Coppa Italia triumphs in 2022 and 2023. The club has also lifted three Supercoppa Italiana titles in 2021, 2022 and 2023, marking a significant turnaround from the decade-long trophy drought that preceded his arrival.
Inter have also re-established themselves on the European stage, reaching the finals of the UEFA Europa League in 2020 and the UEFA Champions League in both 2023 and 2025. Although they fell short against Sevilla FC, Manchester City FC and Paris Saint-Germain respectively, those runs highlighted the club’s resurgence.
A key aspect of Marotta’s tenure has been his recruitment strategy. He has been instrumental in bringing in high-profile players such as Romelu Lukaku, Achraf Hakimi, Nicolò Barella and Hakan Çalhanoğlu, among others, many of whom have played central roles in Inter’s recent achievements.
His influence has extended beyond player recruitment to managerial appointments, including the hiring of Antonio Conte and Simone Inzaghi, both of whom have contributed to the club’s domestic and continental progress.
Following a significant ownership change, Marotta’s responsibilities at Inter expanded further. After the collapse of Suning Holdings Group’s control and the acquisition of the club by Oaktree Capital Management in 2024, he was appointed President and Sporting CEO. This dual role has placed him at the center of Inter’s sporting and administrative direction, ensuring continuity during a transitional period for the club.
