Mourinho personally calls €60m-rated Italian defender but Real Madrid block transfer request – report

Jose Mourinho expressed his interest in signing defender Alessandro Bastoni from Inter Milan, despite Real Madrid's reluctance to pay the €60m price tag. Mourinho spoke personally with Bastoni, recognizing him as an ideal addition to his squad, and sees the need for another centre-back as more urgent than strengthening the midfield.

Real Madrid, however, has already invested in defending, including players like Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries, and Marc Cucurella, and manager Florentino Perez believes they have done enough in that area. The Italian club has also informed Mourinho that Bastoni will not be sold for less than €60m. Mourinho's interest in Bastoni highlights a financial reality that Real Madrid must address, with any potential deal requiring a substantial outlay from the club that has already committed significant funds to its defense.