Alessandro Bastoni reveals contact with Tottenham last summer

Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni has revealed that Tottenham Hotspur tried to sign him last summer, via Corriere dello Sport (h/t Calciomercato).

Bastoni was one of the few players the Nerazzurri tried to cash in on in the summer transfer window to balance their books.

The Italian centre-back was one of the top targets for Spurs, with manager Antonio Conte keen on reuniting with him.

Bastoni played a pivotal role in Inter’s Scudetto triumph under Conte in the 2020/21 season.

However, the 23-year-old never considered leaving San Siro as he wanted to continue making a name for himself with Simone Inzaghi’s side.

When asked about Spurs’ interest in the summer, Bastoni said: “There was some contact , but I’m happy I stayed at Inter.”

Bastoni has made 16 appearances in all competitions this season, playing a key role in Inter’s progression to the round of 16 in the Champions League, overcoming Barcelona in the group stage.

The Azzurri international is currently part of Inter’s winter friendlies campaign, with the Nerazzurri having already beaten Gzira and RB Salzburg.

Bastoni is also confident that his defensive partner Mian Skriniar will sign a new deal and stay at the San Siro.

Skriniar was close to joining Paris Saint-Germain in the summer transfer window, but a move failed to materialise due to Inter’s €70 million valuation.

The Nerazzurri have now changed their stance on the Slovak international, and a contract renewal is reportedly around the corner.

Bastoni added: “I can only advise him [Bastoni] to do what he thinks is right. We are all grown up and everyone has to make their own assessments, together with their family.

“The important thing is that he is convinced of the final choice. I can’t judge, only hope he stays here.”

Tottenham are also keeping a close eye on RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol, who is one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe.

The north Londoners may find it difficult to sign the Croatian prospect, as Chelsea and Real Madrid are set to go all out for his signature.