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Liverpool’s Pursuit of Alessandro Bastoni: A Closer Look

All in the 24 hours when Ornstein suggests an overseas number six too. What a time to be alive! Liverpool’s recent interest in Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni has sparked significant discussions among football enthusiasts. The potential acquisition of the talented centre-back could be a game-changer for the Reds. In this blog, we delve into what’s been said, the key stats, a comparison with Liverpool’s Jarell Quansah, and the likelihood and fee of the transfer.

What’s Been Said

According to a tweet by Indykaila News:
“Liverpool enquired about Alessandro Bastoni. Talks have started between all parties. The player wants the move #lfc”

This revelation has set the Liverpool fanbase alight with excitement. Indykaila, revered as one of the most enthusiastic sources in football news, has the respect of Anfield Index without question.

Inter’s Ownership Turmoil

Inter Milan has recently undergone a significant ownership change. The club was sold due to outstanding debts, which led to new ownership stepping in. The details are crucial as they might influence Bastoni’s potential transfer. Suning Holdings Group, Inter’s previous owners, struggled with financial difficulties that culminated in Oaktree Capital Management seizing the club. This transition could make the club more inclined to sell high-value players like Bastoni to balance their books.

Photo: IMAGO

The Key Stats

Alessandro Bastoni is considered one of the premier left-footed centre-backs in world football. Here are his key stats:

– Age: 25
– Position: Centre-Back (left-footed)
– Height: 1.90 m
– Appearances (2023-24): 28
– Minutes: 2,282
– Goals: 1
– Assists: 4
– International Caps: 27
– Contract Expiry: June 30, 2028
– Market Value: €70 million (Transfermarkt)

Bastoni is not only known for his defensive prowess but also for his ability to play a hybrid role, effectively contributing to both defence and attack. His versatility makes him a valuable asset for any top-tier club. The ability to bring the ball out from the back and the left-footed aspect make him so exciting.

Compare Him To

While it’s challenging to compare Bastoni directly with anyone, Jarell Quansah of Liverpool offers an interesting contrast. Here’s a look at some comparative stats from the 2023-24 season:

– Challenge Success (Tkl%):
– Bastoni: 65.0%
– Quansah: 70.0%

Bastoni attempted nearly double Quansah above though

– Aerial Duel Success:
– Bastoni: 56.1%
– Quansah: 67.2%

Yes the aerial duel success is lower than you’d expect, but despite Quansah’s superior tackling and aerial duel success, Bastoni shines in progressive play. According to FBref, Bastoni is in the 95th percentile or above for several key metrics:

– Assists: 95th percentile
– Expected Assisted Goals (xAG): 99th percentile
– Shot-Creating Actions: 99th percentile
– Progressive Passes: 97th percentile
– Progressive Carries: 97th percentile

Bastoni’s ability to advance the ball and create opportunities significantly outweighs Quansah’s stats in this element, underlining why Bastoni is so highly regarded.

Likelihood and Fee

Given his current market value of €70 million and a contract running until 2028, acquiring Bastoni won’t come cheap. His wage demands are also likely to be substantial. However, Liverpool’s interest and Bastoni’s reported desire to move could play a pivotal role in negotiations.

While this move may seem optimistic and opportunistic as per the word of the summer, Indykaila’s track record for exclusives adds credibility (don’t laugh he’s got some). Bastoni’s acquisition would not only fill a crucial gap in Liverpool’s defence but also enhance their progressive play from the back. Yet, Liverpool fans might have to wait for further validation from sources like Ornstein or Joyce before getting their hopes too high. Time to become the king of wishful thinking.

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