Liverpool’s long-term planning at centre-back is moving into sharper focus, with Alessandro Bastoni increasingly standing out as one of the most compelling names under consideration ahead of a pivotal 2027 summer.

As TeamTalk reports, the Merseyside club have already undertaken groundwork on a possible move for the Inter Milan defender. That alone does not make a transfer imminent, but it does underline how seriously Liverpool are assessing the market as uncertainty grows around Virgil van Dijk’s future.

There have already been substantial changes across the squad in recent years. Trent Alexander-Arnold left for Real Madrid in 2025, while Mohamed Salah also moved on last summer. With Andoni Iraola now in charge, Liverpool are navigating a fresh cycle of rebuild and renewal, and central defence is one of the most important areas on that agenda.

Van Dijk remains a hugely influential figure and a high-level performer, but the broader context is obvious. The Liverpool captain turns 36 in 2027 and is approaching the final stretch of his current deal. Even if there is still faith in his quality, elite clubs rarely wait until a vacancy becomes urgent before acting.

Liverpool have already shown that type of foresight in goal. Giorgi Mamardashvili is viewed as the natural successor to Alisson Becker whenever that transition formally takes place. Replacing Van Dijk, however, is a more complex challenge. Few defenders on the market combine leadership, tactical intelligence, physical presence and top-level experience in the way Liverpool would require.

That is where Bastoni enters the conversation. Inter are under no pressure to sell and there is no suggestion a deal would be straightforward. The valuation mentioned is around £70m, a significant figure for a defender, especially with Chelsea and Manchester City also credited with interest.

From Liverpool’s perspective, the attraction is easy to understand. Bastoni is 27, established at the highest level, and in the prime years of his career. He is comfortable defending large spaces, progressive in possession and strong in duels, attributes that remain essential for any elite side expected to dominate territory.

He has also developed a reputation for composure in major matches, shaped by domestic success with Inter and deep runs in the Champions League. Liverpool would not be signing potential alone, they would be pursuing a player with pedigree, authority and a profile capable of slotting into a demanding environment from day one.