Real Madrid endured a disappointing 2025/26 campaign after finishing the season without a major trophy.
The club also ended the La Liga campaign in second place before Jose Mourinho returned to oversee a major rebuild.
The Spanish giants have already focused heavily on strengthening their defence during the summer transfer window.
Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries have all arrived as Mourinho looks to reshape the back line ahead of the new season. Real Madrid have not stopped there.
The club also remain focused on completing the signings of Yan Diomande and Rodri before the transfer window closes.
However, Mourinho still wants another central defender despite Konate’s arrival on a free transfer. Earlier in the summer, Nico Schlotterbeck emerged as Real Madrid’s preferred option.
However, the German suffered an ankle injury during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, forcing the club to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements.
Now, according to Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid have received fresh hope of signing Alessandro Bastoni after Inter agreed a deal to sign former Manchester City defender John Stones.
The report claims Inter’s move for Stones could open the door for Bastoni to leave later this summer if Real Madrid decide to make their approach.
Mourinho is also a huge admirer of the Italy international. The Portuguese manager believes he would strengthen the squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
However, Real Madrid must first reduce the size of their squad before completing another defensive signing. Also, Mourinho has already informed Raul Asencio that he is not part of his plans for the new season.
His departure would create the space needed for Real Madrid to continue their pursuit of Bastoni. Asencio has attracted interest from other clubs. However, there is currently no indication that the defender wants to leave.
Nevertheless, Inter’s agreement to sign Stones has handed the Spanish giants fresh encouragement as they continue working towards a move for Bastoni.
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