Flick doubts Barcelona's next star signing

Deco is determined on this signing, but the German coach has his own plans

Héctor Andreu | 17 May 2026 | 13.35
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Deco insists on Bastoni while Flick hesitates / El Periodico
Deco insists on Bastoni while Flick hesitates / El Periodico

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Alessandro Bastoni has become one of the major points of debate within FC Barcelona. What seemed like a progressing deal has now been put on hold due to Hansi Flick's doubts.

The Italian center-back is highly rated by Deco, who has been working on his possible arrival for months. However, the German coach is not fully convinced of how he would fit into Barcelona's plan.

Alessandro Bastoni divides FC Barcelona

Until very recently, Bastoni was the top candidate to reinforce FC Barcelona's defense. His hierarchy at Inter and international experience made him a top-notch option. However, the situation has shifted in recent days. According to Matteo Moretto, Hansi Flick has expressed reservations about some of the player's traits, especially in relation to the desired playing style.

The coach values quick and dominant center-backs who excel in open spaces and can defend far from the box. This raises doubts about Alessandro Bastoni, despite his exceptional ball-playing skills. Deco, on the other hand, believes that the Italian would bring clean distribution, leadership, and personality. For the sports management, the Inter defender remains an opportunity too significant to overlook.

Hansi Flick cools off a key deal

Flick has not ruled out the possibility entirely, but his opinion carries much weight. FC Barcelona is keen on avoiding mistakes in a market where every investment will be crucial. The signing of Alessandro Bastoni would require a significant financial effort. The club does not anticipate a deal close to 40 or 50 million as Inter holds a strong position.

Moreover, the Italian team has shown no intention to sell. Piero Ausilio has explicitly stated that the club is content with Bastoni and does not intend to make him available. This stance further complicates the scenario. FC Barcelona would need internal consensus, salary leeway, and a compelling offer to prompt Inter to negotiate.

Flick has doubts about Bastoni

LaLiga awaits a decision before the end of May

In LaLiga, the developments are being closely monitored. Barcelona needs to strengthen their defense but also secure a forward capable of succeeding Robert Lewandowski. This dual priority limits the room for maneuver. Hansi Flick understands that there is no room for error as the team requires immediate reinforcements and not uncertainties that lead to tactical concerns.

Hence why the name of Cristian Romero has emerged as an alternative. The Tottenham center-back is favored for his aggressiveness, competitive profile, and a cost that might be more manageable. Meanwhile, Alessandro Bastoni finds himself in an awkward position. While not ruled out, he no longer appears to be a unanimous choice within FC Barcelona.

Alessandro Bastoni, caught between Deco and Inter

Inter is also playing their cards. Alessandro Bastoni is under contract until 2028 with a significant salary, so a contract extension could be on the table if his departure falls through. The Italian club views him as a strategic asset for the present and future, not looking to sell unless an offer simply cannot be refused.

At FC Barcelona, the final decision will come after further discussions between Deco and Hansi Flick. The sporting director is pushing, but the coach seeks assurances before endorsing such a costly move. Alessandro Bastoni remains an elite defender and an appealing prospect for LaLiga. However, his move to FC Barcelona now hinges more than ever on Hansi Flick's approval.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Flick duda del próximo fichaje estrella del Barcelona

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