Chelsea reportedly set to open bid for Inter Milan defender

Chelsea are reportedly preparing an €80 million offer for Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni, as Xabi Alonso looks to strengthen a defence that has shown vulnerabilities at the start of the 2026/27 season.

The Italian centre-back has emerged as a major target for the Blues, with reports suggesting Chelsea are seriously considering a move ahead of the January transfer window. Bastoni is regarded as one of Serie A’s leading defenders and has established himself as a key figure for both Inter and Italy.

The defender’s ability to play as a left-sided centre-back, operate in a back three and contribute to possession-based football makes him particularly attractive to Alonso.

Chelsea have previously tested Inter’s resolve with a reported €50m approach, which was rejected, meaning a potential €80m proposal would represent a significant escalation. Inter are understood to want around €80m for Bastoni, while Barcelona have also been linked with the defender but may struggle to match that valuation.

Chelsea's interest therefore puts the Blues in a strong position if they decide to turn their reported plans into a formal bid. A successful deal would give Alonso an experienced, technically gifted defender capable of fitting into different tactical systems and potentially becoming a long-term leader at Stamford Bridge.

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