Chelsea Eye Blockbuster Move for Inter Milan Star Alessandro Bastoni
Transfer periods rarely conclude without Chelsea investing massive sums in global football's most promising stars, though certain positions within their roster still need strengthening.
The Blues possess a wealth of lethal attackers in both central and wide roles, alongside an impressive collection of midfield talents. Their triumph in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup further highlights the exceptional depth of their squad.
Nevertheless, Chelsea's obvious vulnerability lies in their defensive line. Despite having talent, it lacks the same depth and excellence found elsewhere on the field, with players like Tosin Adarabioyo, Trevoh Chalobah and Benoït Badiashile sitting well below the game's top tier. Given Wesley Fofana's frequent injury struggles, strengthening the center-back position could determine success or failure in major competitions.
While many of the world's premier central defenders remain out of reach, Alessandro Bastoni represents a target Chelsea should pursue irrespective of cost and availability as they seek to reclaim their position atop English football.
Among the Elite Performers
Inter's solid defensive foundation has been vital to their recent achievements. The Nerazzurri, who have appeared in two of the past three Champions League finals, feature exceptional goalkeeping from Yann Sommer, tireless midfield work from Nicolò Barella and clinical finishing from Lautaro Martínez, with Bastoni's resolute defensive displays equally important to their recent runs.
The modest Italian may not possess van Dijk's grace, Rüdiger's strength or Saliba's pace, but his exceptional defensive awareness and intelligence make him just as valuable at the back. The imposing 6'3 defender anticipates play brilliantly, consistently positioning himself ideally to neutralize attacking threats.
Bastoni ranks among the globe's finest center-backs and would instantly upgrade Chelsea's defense—which is already improving under Enzo Maresca's guidance. Skilled at protecting his penalty area, winning individual duels and anticipating striker movements, he embodies the classic Italian defensive tradition.
The 26-year-old excels with the ball as well. In last season's Champions League, he ranked in the 85th percentile or above among positional counterparts for attempted passes, through balls, field switches, carries and completed dribbles per 90 minutes. He can advance into midfield and pierce opposition pressure with his tall frame or excellent passing range.
Bastoni also poses a frequently unstoppable attacking threat. He recorded two goals and six assists across all competitions last season, meaning he's now achieved four or more goal contributions in each of his previous five seasons. He's simply dominant in both penalty boxes.
Ideal Complement to Levi Colwill
Maresca mentioned Chelsea's intention to bring experience to their squad during the summer window, something they have largely overlooked thus far. They haven't signed anyone over 23 since the window opened, with the Blues still missing crucial veteran leadership and toughness.
Bastoni would certainly address this gap, serving as the ideal complement to Levi Colwill—Chelsea's defensive prospect who could anchor their backline for years to come. The Italian international has reached two Champions League finals, claimed seven domestic titles and the European Championship since joining Inter, accumulating 295 appearances for club and country.
With Colwill being the more attacking-minded defender, Bastoni would provide the steady presence ready to handle secondary threats—similar to successful partnerships like Liverpool's Ibrahima Konaté and Virgil van Dijk, or Arsenal's Gabriel and William Saliba.
Like Colwill, Bastoni is left-footed, and the Inter star is accustomed to playing left-side in a three-man defense, though his abilities easily translate to the right side of a center-back pairing—or Colwill could shift to the right.
Fresh Opportunity
Though no transfer speculation has connected Chelsea with Bastoni, he's not an entirely unrealistic prospect for the Blues. They could afford his substantial valuation and continue providing opportunities for major trophies. Simone Inzaghi's recent exit also introduces some uncertainty at San Siro.
Most importantly, Chelsea could offer Bastoni a new adventure. He's played his entire career in Italy and the Premier League's appeal might prove irresistible. After eight years at Inter, the defender could be enticed by a fresh beginning in football's most demanding league—all while working under an Italian coach.