Barcelona’s hopes of signing Federico Dimarco in 2027 have been dealt a significant setback after Inter Milan activated an option to extend the defender’s contract until June 2028.

The Italy international had been under consideration by the LaLiga champions, who were targeting a free transfer once his existing agreement expired in June 2027.

However, Inter Milan’s decision to add a further year to Dimarco’s deal means Barcelona can no longer pursue that plan. The extension protects the Serie A club from losing the player without a transfer fee.

Inter had held talks with Dimarco over a new contract for several weeks before exercising the option. The club is also expected to hold further discussions at the beginning of 2027 about potentially adding more years to his agreement at San Siro.

Inter president Giuseppe Marotta confirmed the decision and said both the club and the player wanted to continue their relationship.

“We have exercised the clause agreed upon with him, even though it would be unilateral. But we've agreed that we will extend the contract for the year,” Marotta said.

“Dimarco wants to stay, we want him to stay too, and we're happy. The sense of belonging must prevail over other values.”