Arne Slot Wants Inter Milan Star Signed by Liverpool

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has set his sights on Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni as a prime transfer target, amid defensive woes at Anfield[2][3][4]. The 26-year-old Italian international, rated among Europe's elite center-backs, is reportedly keen on a Premier League move after winning two Scudetti with Inter[2][3].

Bastoni's interest coincides with Liverpool missing out on Marc Guehi, who is heading to Manchester City, leaving Slot "reeling" from a string of poor results, including a draw against relegation-threatened Burnley[2][4]. Inter would demand a mammoth €80 million (£69.5m) fee for the player, contracted until 2028, making a January deal unlikely but a summer transfer feasible if Liverpool prioritizes bolstering their backline[2][3].

The Reds' defense has been "atrocious" this season, with Virgil van Dijk turning 35 and Ibrahima Konate's future uncertain amid contract talks[3]. Sources confirm Bastoni, with 282 appearances for Inter, is "open to a move" abroad at the peak of his career, though he recently hinted, "Will I stay at Inter? Probably yes[3]."

Nico Schlotterbeck from Borussia Dortmund emerges as another "world-class" alternative on Liverpool's shortlist, available for £50m (€58m) this summer, with Real Madrid out of the race[3][4]. Slot views these signings as essential, as failure to reinforce could jeopardize his position[2].

Meanwhile, scrutiny surrounds Slot's handling of Federico Chiesa, previously signed by Liverpool, who faces a premature exit back to Juventus after limited starts[1]. This contrasts with the proactive pursuit of Bastoni, signaling Slot's intent to reshape the squad decisively.

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