Barcelona targets Alessandro Bastoni in complex swap deal involving Roony Bardghji

Barcelona is pursuing Inter's Alessandro Bastoni for €70M. Roony Bardghji could be included in a swap deal to strengthen the defense after Iñigo Martínez's exit.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 8:51 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from YSScores

Defensive Reconstruction Following Martínez Exit

Barcelona management has identified Alessandro Bastoni as the essential successor to Iñigo Martínez, who recently completed a free transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr. At 27 years old, the Italian international is viewed by Hansi Flick’s technical staff as the ideal modern center-back, possessing both the defensive physicality and elite ball-distribution skills required for Barcelona’s high-line system. While official club-to-club meetings have yet to take place, the sporting department has established initial contact with Bastoni’s representatives to gauge his interest in a move to the Spotify Camp Nou.

Financial Valuation and Negotiation Hurdles

Inter Milan has placed a firm €70 million price tag on Bastoni, who remains under contract at the San Siro until June 2028. This valuation currently exceeds Barcelona’s immediate liquid budget, especially as the club simultaneously prepares a significant bid for Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez. To bridge this financial gap, Barcelona is exploring creative exchange formulas. The goal is to leverage the club's surplus of young talent to reduce the cash component of the deal, aiming to capitalize on Inter’s need for squad rejuvenation in specific positions.

Bardghji and Yaakobishvili as Potential Makeweights

The most prominent name emerging in exchange discussions is Roony Bardghji. The 20-year-old Swedish winger, who joined Barcelona from Copenhagen for €2 million, has seen his market value surge to approximately €15 million despite limited minutes under Flick. With Lamine Yamal firmly occupying the starting right-wing spot, Bardghji is reportedly open to a departure to secure regular playing time. Additionally, Inter has shown interest in 20-year-old goalkeeper Áron Yaakobishvili, currently on loan at FC Andorra, as a potential long-term successor to the aging Yann Sommer.