Inter Milan keeping tabs on Barcelona defensive trio – report

After signing Inigo Martinez from Athletic Club on a free transfer, Barcelona will have eight centre-backs within their ranks ahead of the 2023/24 season. This also includes the likes of Samuel Umtiti and Clement Lenglet, who will return from their respective loan tenures.

While Ronald Araujo, Jules Kounde, and Andreas Christensen currently hold the first-choice defensive spots in the team, Xavi has often opted to use Marcos Alonso in central defence, too, due to his left-footedness.

The Spaniard signed a contract extension recently as well, keeping him at Barcelona until 2024. Despite that, he has suitors in the market.

According to a report by Mundo Deportivo, Inter Milan are attentive towards Marcos Alonso, alongside Andreas Christensen and Samuel Umtiti.

Inter and Barcelona have a good relationship, and most recently met to discuss transfer strategy ahead of the summer transfer window. Four names were reportedly on the table, including Franck Kessie, Marcelo Brozovic, Jordi Alba, and Umtiti himself.

The Frenchman has done to revive his career in Serie A this season, playing for Lecce on loan. A few parties have been interested in his signature, a list that also includes AC Milan.

Meanwhile, Christensen is considered one of the untouchables at Barcelona. The Danish international has found a starting spot in Xavi’s back-four, and is not expected to leave despite a possibility of huge offers in the summer.

Finally, it seems unlikely that Alonso leaves either, unless Inter table a solid offer for him. Xavi is evidently a fan of the veteran defender, and has placed him above Eric Garcia in the pecking order for centre-backs.

The only question remains, will he still hold priority once Inigo Martinez joins the Catalans next season?