Barcelona identify Gvardiol and Bastoni as top defensive targets 

Barcelona have identified Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol and Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni as top defensive targets next summer (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

The Catalan giants have prioritised signing a new centre-back due to the uncertain futures of Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen.

Araujo’s season has taken a turn for the worse after taking an indefinite break to recover from mental health issues.

The Uruguayan plunged into depression following his catastrophic performance against Chelsea in the Champions League last month.

He plans to return after the Christmas break, but it is uncertain whether he can regain his place in the squad. The Catalan giants could cash in on him next summer.

Christensen’s contract expires at the end of the season, and Barca have no intention of renewing it.

The 29-year-old’s constant injury troubles over the last two seasons have hampered his progress and forced him down the defensive pecking order.

Barca are looking to add a high-profile ball-playing left-footed centre-back to their ranks, who can spearhead their backline in the long run.

Gvardiol and Bastoni appear to be tailor-made options for the Blaugrana, but their steep price tags could be a sticking point.

The Croatian international has firmly established himself as a pillar in City’s defence since his transfer from RB Leipzig in a €90 million deal in 2023.

The 23-year-old has racked up two goals and four assists in 19 games this season, playing a pivotal role in City’s quest for silverware following a trophyless 2024/25 campaign.

Gvardiol’s extraordinary progressive passing and carrying statistics strengthen his status as an elite modern-day centre-back.

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His contract expires in 2028, and the Cityzens consider him integral to their future.

Bastoni has been a cornerstone in Inter’s defence for a long time, and he recently dismissed speculation about his future.

The Italian centre-back is also technically proficient, showcasing high-level passing while combining his large stature and good reading of the game to dominate defensive duels.

His deal with Inter expires in June 2028.

Barca are confident they can comply with the 1:1 Financial Fair Play Rule next summer, which will allow them to register players without constraints.

The La Liga champions are also monitoring cost-effective options, including Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi and Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck.

Manager Hansi Flick has been using Gerard Martin as a make-shift centre-back in recent games.