Como have officially signed Italy Under-20 international Mattia Liberali from Catanzaro, activating the €6m release clause after he turned down a return to Milan.
“I’m really keen to develop and improve, and I’ve found we share a lot of common ground with the club in this regard. I’ve also spoken to the manager, and I think the playing philosophy is perfect for me. I can’t wait to take to the pitch at the Sinigaglia and meet the fans.”
Liberali ready to take off at Como
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – JULY 31: Mattia Liberali of AC Milan reacts during a Pre-Season Friendly match between AC Milan and Real Madrid at Soldier Field Stadium on July 31, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
The creative midfielder only turned 19 in April and has represented Italy at various youth levels throughout his career.
He was a product of the Milan youth academy, but left amid frustration last summer when he realised there would be no playing time or imminent promotion to the senior squad.
Liberali joined Catanzaro effectively for nothing, but with Milan still owed 50 per cent of the future sale fee.
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 13: Mattia Liberali of Italy U17 in action during the International friendly match between Italy U17 and France U17 at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on February 13, 2024 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
However, he was convinced that Como and working with Cesc Fabregas would be the correct next step in his career.
He has signed a contract with Como until June 2031.
“Mattia is a creative player with excellent technical ability and confidence in possession,” coach Fabregas told the club website.
“He can operate in tight spaces, create chances and contribute in the final third. We believe his qualities fit our style and look forward to helping him continue his development.”
Last season, Liberali scored four goals with four assists in 30 games for Serie B side Catanzaro.
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Italy’s technical director Paolo Maldini is determined to involve Gianluigi Buffon in his project, offering the former goalkeeper a primary role within the Azzurri.
Newly-appointed Italy technical director Maldini wants to include Buffon in his Azzurri project, according to Gazzetta.
Buffon given a new Italy role by Maldini?
The report claims that Buffon will be offered a primary role within Club Italia, the Body that oversees the activity of the national teams, from the youth sectors to the first team.
Buffon resigned following the Azzurri’s defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup play-off final this past March, alongside Gattuso and FIGC President Gabriele Gravina.
Gazzetta claims that Buffon will soon be contacted by Maldini.
Buffon previously served as Italy’s Delegation Chief under Luciano Spalletti and Gennaro Gattuso, but the offer he will receive from FIGC concerns a different role for the legendary goalkeeper.
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Gianluigi Buffon, Head of Delegation of Italy, looks on prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Israel at Stadio Friuli on October 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Gazzetta also confirms that Andrea Pirlo, who won the 2006 World Cup with Italy alongside Buffon, remains Maldini’s favourite option to become the new Nazionale coach.
The FIGC confirmed Maldini’s appointment as Italy’s technical director last Saturday, with the ex-defender joined by his former Milan teammate Leonardo, serving as an advisor.
Aston Villa target Pervis Estupiñán isn’t the only player expected to leave Milan this summer, as the Rossoneri are preparing for more sales, hoping to raise €150m this summer, reports Gazzetta.
After securing the signatures of Gonçalo Ramos and Mario Gila for a combined fee of around €50m, Milan are now working on exits.
Aston Villa in advanced talks for Estupinan
The more advanced situation concerns Estupinan with the Rossoneri in advanced talks with Aston Villa.
There have been mixed reports on the Rossoneri’s asking price, with SportMediset claiming that the ex-Brighton defender can leave for €18m, while Gazzetta insists that the price is €20m.
The pink paper, however, adds that Milan might eventually be satisfied with selling the 28-year-old for €15m, the same fee they are expected to demand for Fikayo Tomori.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Pervis Estupinan of AC Milan walks off after receiving a red card during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Other players are not part of Ruben Amorim’s plans, especially in central midfield.
Milan will listen to offers for Youssouf Fofana, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Warren Bondo, while winger Rafael Leao is on the market for €60m, but hasn’t yet received formal offers from any club, especially from Europe’s top five leagues.
According to Gazzetta, Milan aim to raise around €150m from player sales this summer in order to improve their financial situation after failing to qualify for the Champions League, but also to boost their budget for new signings.
Paolo Maldini’s appointment as Italy’s technical director has generated positive reactions nationwide, with fans and Azzurri legends alike expressing confidence and excitement.
Italy’s football federation (FIGC) confirmed Maldini’s appointment on Saturday night, announcing that the ex-defender will be joined by Leonardo, who has been hired as an advisor.
Italy turned the World Cup into a TV event for the third consecutive time; meanwhile, MelBet Tanzania kept football fans entertained with a thrilling tournament, which has seen France, Spain, Argentina and England qualify for the semi-finals.
Italy were desperate to rebuild, and Maldini’s appointment marks the start of a new project that will see the Azzurri legend take on a commanding role.
Along with Leonardo, Maldini will identify the ideal candidate to coach the Italian national team. Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini are seen as the frontrunners, but other names are starting to emerge in the Italian media, even some intriguing ones like Pep Guardiola and Didier Deschamps.
While waiting for a new coach, the first big decision by the new FIGC President, Giovanni Malagò, has undoubtedly garnered significant approval.
Dino Zoff, who coached Maldini during Euro 2000, which the Azzurri lost in the Final to France, said: “Paolo has given so much for our football, to Milan in particular but also for the national team. He was also one of my players when I was in charge and I can’t forget his father Cesare either, who was Bearzot’s assistant when I won the World Cup in 1982.
“Maldini is a perfect appointment in terms of character, charisma and competence. I also understand the choice of Leonardo as an advisor. It’s right that a leader surrounds himself with people he trusts.”
A 1982 Italy World Cup winner, Zoff is confident Maldini will make a wise decision regarding the new Italy head coach: “Maldini has to be free to follow his beliefs, without external interference,” he said.
Zoff was echoed by ex-Milan star Alessandro Costacurta, who spent many years with Maldini and won numerous trophies at San Siro.
“This is great news for Italian football, because we have brought in one of the most illuminated and sincere people in the sport,” said the former defender.
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 16: AC Milan Sporting Strategy & Development Director Paolo Maldini and AC Milan Club Sporting Director Leonardo De Araujo before the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and AC Milan at Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia on February 16, 2019 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Malagò made the best possible choice. In fact, picking Maldini is perhaps more important than choosing the new coach.
Leonardo is more of a dreamer, a visionary, whereas Paolo is more practical, looks to his knowledge and instinct,” Costacurta concluded.
“The best thing about them is that they listen to each other, despite starting from different ideas, and always manage to find a common solution.”
Spain have knocked favourites France out of the 2026 World Cup with a 2-0 victory, as Milan’s Mike Maignan, Adrien Rabiot and Roma midfielder Manu Koné miss out on the Final.
The Spaniards go on to face either England or Argentina in the Final on July 19 in New Jersey, while France will fight for the bronze medal on July 18.
Les Bleus had won every game so far in the tournament, but made two changes from the side that beat Morocco in the quarter-final, as Bradley Barcola was preferred to Désiré Doué, but above all Roma’s Manu Koné dropped to the bench as Aurelien Tchaoumeni recovered from a muscular injury.
Spain conceded only one goal in six World Cup games, during the 2-1 victory over Belgium, and again picked ex-Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz rather than Pedri.
ARLINGTON, TEXAS – JULY 14: (EDITOR’S NOTE: Image was captured using a remote camera from behind the goal.) Mikel Oyarzabal #21 of Spain converts a penalty to score his team’s first goal past Mike Maignan #16 of France during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi Final match between France and Spain at Dallas Stadium on July 14, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
Spain were awarded a penalty when Lucas Digne brought down Lamine Yamal, the defender who just agreed a move to PSG making a hash of a clearance. Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up to convert past Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
The situation went from bad to worse for France, as moments later William Saliba went off with a back injury, then Fabian Ruiz prodded wide after a well-worked move set up by Yamal.
Unai Simon’s first real test was sprinting off his line to clear from Kylian Mbappé at the 42nd minute, then Mbappé just failed to get on the end of a fizzing Jules Koundé cross.
ARLINGTON, TEXAS – JULY 14: Adrien Rabiot #14 of France argues with referee Ivan Barton during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi Final match between France and Spain at Dallas Stadium on July 14, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Milan midfielder Adrien Rabiot was already on a yellow card and risked a second, so was replaced by Roma’s Koné for the restart.
INCREDIBLE
Spain one-two their way through the France defense and Pedro Porro doubles his country’s lead… pic.twitter.com/DFGCLMzFUC
However, Spain passed their way through the French side to score the second with Pedro Porro blasting in at the near post after a give and go with Dani Olmo.
ARLINGTON, TEXAS – JULY 14: Manu Kone #6 of France competes for the ball against Mikel Merino #6 of Spain during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi Final match between France and Spain at Dallas Stadium on July 14, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Lamine Yamal had the ball in the net again moments later, but was flagged offside, while Mbappé saw his strike deflected inches wide by Marc Cucurella.
The best chance France had was when Unai Simon came rushing out to clear, but got back in time to stop Désiré Doué firing into the empty net.
“EXCLUSIVE: Cuti Romero to leave Tottenham this summer, Inter held talks with Spurs over recent days. Romero has been offered as option during talks for Djed Spence. Inter keen but costs very high. Barça also like Cuti Romero,” Romano posted.
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What next for Cristian Romero?
Romero could be a decent signing for someone like Barcelona, while Inter also makes sense for him, even if that currently looks complicated due to how expensive the deal would be.
For now, it seems there isn’t much possibility of Romero staying in the Premier League, and that makes sense given that he hasn’t always appeared that settled here.
Despite some moments of quality, Romero hasn’t always looked that well suited to the physical demands of English football.
Still, it’s easy to imagine the 28-year-old still having the quality to perform at a high level in a different league, and perhaps in a more settled environment than he’s had at Tottenham.
Spurs have been poor in the last two seasons, finishing 17th in 2024/25 and 2025/26, so even if Romero could have done better at various points, he’s far from the only one under-performing, and the frequent managerial changes and poor decisions in the transfer market won’t have helped.
Nicolò Zaniolo is refusing to train with Udinese after failing to agree a new contract, so there are reports he was offered to Milan over the last 24 hours.
The Italy international is in a rather odd situation, as he joined Udinese last summer on loan for €2.5m with option to buy for a further €5m, plus Galatasaray getting a 50 per cent cut of the future sale fee.
UDINE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 01: Nicolò Zaniolo of Udinese celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Atalanta BC at Stadio Friuli on November 01, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
However, as it was a rushed job, it was done with the promise to re-evaluate his salary once the campaign was over.
UDINE, ITALY – MARCH 14: Nicolò Zaniolo of Udinese makes a run past Lloyd Kelly of Juventus during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Juventus FC at Stadio Friuli on March 14, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
It remains to be seen if they are interested in a player who did have a good season, but also has a terrible injury record and hasn’t been able to find any consistency in recent years.
Since forcing the exit from Roma in February 2023, he has played for Galatasaray, Aston Villa, Atalanta, Fiorentina and Udinese.
The contract with Udinese technically runs to June 2029, so this could get ugly if a solution is not found soon for the 27-year-old.
He has also been linked with a return to the Stadio Olimpico, this time for Lazio.
Check out today’s Serie A transfer updates with Roma directors reportedly meeting the agents of Crysencio Summerville and Aston Villa’s warning to Juventus that Emiliano Martinez won’t leave.
It’s been another rather busy day for Serie A clubs, which are working to strengthen their teams for the 2026-27 campaign.
Juventus were previously linked with Roma’s Mile Svilar, although the Bianconeri’s main target in goal has always been Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez.
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – MAY 20: Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez reacts during the UEFA Europa League Final 2026 match between SC Freiburg and Aston Villa FC at Besiktas Park on May 20, 2026 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
The Premier League club, however, have clearly stated today by their director, Damian Vidagany, that the Argentine is not for sale.
According to Gazzetta, the Bianconeri are preparing an offer to sign Franck Kessié as a free agent and have identified Folarin Balogun as a potential reinforcement in attack as they are struggling to reach an agreement with PSG for Randal Kolo Muani.
Multiple sources claim that Noussair Mazraoui is Milan’s main target to replace Pervis Estupinan, who has received an offer from Aston Villa. According to SportMediaset, Milan have demanded €18m for the Ecuador international.
According to Gazzetta, Milan remain interested in Antonio Silva, who has rejected a contract extension offer from Benfica. The Portuguese centre-back has attracted interest from Bournemouth as well.
Inter are still chasing a replacement for Denzel Dumfries, with Djed Spence and Nahuel Molina among their targets. Guela Doué is another right-back on their shortlist, but his club, Strasbourg, has requested over €35m.
Ederson, Napoli chasing Fiorentina defender and more news
Atalanta director Cristiano Giuntoli spoke for the first time about the collapsed Manchester United transfer for Ederson: “We were stunned,” he admitted. “He is happy to remain, and we are working on a new contract.”
According to Gazzetta, Sassuolo are interested in Daniel Maldini, who has returned to Atalanta after a six-month loan spell at Lazio.
Hamed Traoré has undergone his medical tests with Genoa today.
Ex-Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer has joined Club Brugge on a free transfer, signing a three-year deal.
Fiorentina have a verbal agreement to sign Real Madrid defender Víctor Valdepeñas, according to multiple sources, including Sky.
Napoli are interested in Fiorentina full-back Niccolò Fortini, according to Gazzetta.
Domenico Tedesco, Bologna’s coach, has said the club is “confident” that Riccardo Orsolini will sign a contract extension.
New Como signing Luis Milla: “Fabregas was very important in the choice to go to Como. I was glad he called me because of what he conveyed and his ambition to grow. I have high expectations. I could have arrived in January, but Getafe were not doing well, and it wasn’t the right time.”
Frosinone are close to signing Sebastiano Desplanches on loan from Palermo.
Serie A – Official done deals on July 14, 2026
Danilho Doekhi joins Lazio as a free agent
Danilho Doekhi joins Lazio as a free agent
Felipe Jack from Como to Cremonese (Serie B) on loan
Lorenzo Gori from Frosinone to Grosseto (Serie C) on loan.
Matteo Agrimi from Lecce to Flaminia (Serie D) on a free transfer
Giuseppe Battimelli from Bologna to Lecco (Serie C) as a free agent
Maat Daniel Caprini from Fiorentina to Cesena (Serie B) on loan)
Milan stars Mike Maignan and Adrien Rabiot start for France in the World Cup semi-final against Spain, but Roma midfielder Manu Koné drops back to the bench.
The winners will play either England or Argentina in the World Cup Final on July 19.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JULY 04: Adrien Rabiot #14 of France arrives at the stadium before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Paraguay and France at Philadelphia Stadium on July 04, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
France have emerged as the undoubted favourites to win the trophy after a series of dominant performances in USA, Canada and Mexico, winning all six matches with 16 goals scored and just three conceded.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JUNE 22: Manu Kone #6 of France arrives at the stadium before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match between France and Iraq at Philadelphia Stadium on June 22, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Kylian Mbappé leads the way with support from Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembélé, but Bradley Barcola is preferred to Désiré Doué.
There are no Serie A players in the Spain squad, but after a dismal start with the shock 0-0 against Cape Verde, they’ve gone from strength to strength in this World Cup.
Unai Simon set a new record for most minutes without conceding at the World Cup, ended by Charles De Ketelaere in a 2-1 quarter-final win over Belgium.
They start the same line-up as that game, meaning late goal hero Mikel Merino is again going to come off the bench as a super-sub after scoring in the Round of 16 and the quarter-final.
Mikel Oyarzabal is top scorer with four goals, supported by Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Alex Baena.
Former Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz again pushes Pedri onto the bench.
Luka Modric is increasingly likely to commit to a new one-year contract with Milan, claim reports, and could join their pre-season tour of Australia.
The midfielder turns 41 in September, and his contract with the Rossoneri expired on June 30.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Luka Modric of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
He was focused on Croatia’s performance at the 2026 World Cup and is only now getting over the disappointment of their early exit.
Milan have won Modric over
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Luka Modric of AC Milan celebrates the victory at the end of the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
If confirmed, Modric will join up with the squad during their pre-season tour of Australia, which begins on July 26.
Despite his age, the Ballon d’Or winner played 37 games for Milan last season, scoring two goals and providing three assists in 2,864 minutes of football.
It would’ve been more, but he was ruled out for two matches by a fractured cheekbone in April.
Multiple sources in Italy claim that Milan demand €18m from Aston Villa for Pervis Estupinan, with Noussair Mazraoui emerging as Ruben Amorim’s favourite option to replace the Ecuador international.
Sportmediaset provides the latest updates on Aston Villa’s negotiations for Milan defender Estupinan.
Amorim targets Mazraoui to replace Estupinan at Milan
The Italian broadcasters claim that the Premier League club is ready to invest a fee between €10m and €12m for the ex-Brighton left-back who failed to impress in his first season at Milan in 2025-26.
The Rossoneri are ready to let Estupinan go, but have set their asking price at €18m, the report claims.
Ruben Amorim, however, has already identified the ideal replacement for Estupinan as both SportMediaset and Daniele Longo of Calciomercato.com claim that the Portuguese wants to reunite with Manchester United full-back Mazraoui at San Siro.
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JULY 09: Noussair Mazraoui #3 of Morocco controls the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between France and Morocco at Boston Stadium on July 09, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
The versatile 28-year-old is under contract at Old Trafford until 2028 and played 49 games under Amorim with the Red Devils.
According to Sportmediaset, Milan have already opened talks with the player’s agent Rafaela Pimenta, but haven’t yet made a formal offer to Manchester United.
Massimiliano Allegri insists he was never in talks for the Italy job before accepting the Napoli offer, refuses to reply to Milan owner Gerry Cardinale, but notes: ‘I’m happy to coach Rasmus Hojlund.” Last season, I dodged him…’
New Napoli coach Allegri was unveiled at a big event at the Teatro San Carlo in Naples on Tuesday.
The Tuscan tactician has signed a three-year contract at the Stadio Maradona.
Allegri was joined by President Aurelio De Laurentiis and directors Giovanni Manna and Andrea Chiavelli, answering questions from reporters.
Allegri’s first Napoli press conference
“For me, this unveiling is too much. It’s the first time it has happened to me, and I thank the president,” Allegri said, smiling (via TuttoNapoli).
“Antonio Conte has shown all his worth in his career. I’m lucky; this is already the second time I’ve inherited Antonio’s team. Let’s hope it bodes well. Luck is important in life.”
During his two-year spell at Napoli, Conte won both the Scudetto and the Supercoppa Italiana.
“It will be important to work seriously and professionally, especially to find the foundations to get to March, as I always say, seasons are decided there,” Allegri continued.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
“Staying in contention for the Scudetto, Champions League, and Coppa Italia would be important.”
Napoli will start their pre-season tomorrow.
“We’ll begin a wonderful adventure for me; it’s a crazy city,” Allegri continued.
“I immediately felt the affection, a passionate city, and I’m very happy.”
Allegri was reported to be on the Italian FA’s radar to replace Gennaro Gattuso, but the newly appointed Napoli coach said he was never in talks with any representative of the FIGC.
It’s worth mentioning that Allegri reached an agreement with Napoli way before Giovanni Malagò was elected as the new FIGC President on June 22.
“I haven’t had any contact about the [Italian] federation,” insisted Allegri.
“I’ve spoken to the [Napoli] president, and I was already close a few years ago. I’m happy to work with him, with all of Napoli.
“I have players who can play with multiple systems; the important thing is to have enthusiasm and a desire to achieve goals through sacrifice and hard work, and, as I said, I believe I inherit a team that has these qualities,” Allegri added.
“Football is debatable; everyone talks about it. It’s the most beautiful sport in the world, and it’s unpredictable. The modules, the systems, we have an important team, it has had successes in recent years, and it is important to continue the work.”
Milan sacked Allegri at the end of the 2025-26 season after failing to qualify for the Champions League.
“It’s not a matter of revenge; some seasons end a certain way. I’m sorry about how last season ended,” he said.
“I’ll take a moment to thank those who collaborated with me in Milan; it’s been an intense season. Winning or achieving goals is not easy, so we start from the understanding that nothing is a given, despite recent successes. Tomorrow is another season.”
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 03: Gerry Cardinale of AC Milan looks on before the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on September 03, 2022 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I absolutely do not comment on the ownership’s words. Again, I can only thank those who have supported me all season,” insisted Allegri.
“Then, unfortunately, we are sorry for the missed goal, but another year begins, beautiful to experience. We have three competitions, and we start with great enthusiasm.”
Talking about Napoli’s transfer strategy, Allegri noted: “The club takes care of the transfer market. We work closely together. Once I’ve seen the whole team, I’ll give some evaluations, and we’ll see what’s missing.
“With the director and the president, we will talk about how we can improve. An important collaboration, in today’s football, the challenge is to be competitive and sustainable. The team is already strong, then we’ll see what to do.”
Last summer, Allegri’s Milan failed to secure an agreement with Hojlund, who instead joined Napoli from Manchester United. When asked about the Denmark international, Allegri replied with a smile: “I’m happy to coach him. Last season, I dodged him; this year I took him.”
Lastly, the Italian tactician discussed the goalkeeper situation with Alex Meret and Vanja Milinkovic-Savic often rotating under Conte in 2025-26.
“Napoli have two excellent goalkeepers; they are important. Surely there will be hierarchies; there will be a first and a second choice. But I’ll see this during the pre-season.”
Milan had their first training session under new coach Ruben Amorim today and there were already some surprises, including Samuel Chukwueze following in Amad Diallo’s Manchester United footsteps.
Samuel Chukwueze of Fulham celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal during the Premier League match between Fulham and Manchester City at Craven Cottage on December 02, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Chukwueze is usually an attacking winger on the right flank, so could’ve been one of the support strikers in this system, but is instead placed in a deeper role.
He returned to Milan after a loan spell at Fulham last season, where he scored three goals and provided four assists in 25 games.
The first Milan goal of pre-season was scored by youngster Andrej Kostic.
Andrea Pirlo is the new favourite to take over as Italy coach, claims La Gazzetta dello Sport, as Paolo Maldini and Leonardo hope to reunite with a former Milan teammate.
The Nazionale can begin taking shape now that the decision has finally been made to appoint a technical director, a role that until now did not exist within the Azzurri set-up.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MARCH 8: Former New York City FC player Andrea Pirlo waves to fans prior to the MLS match against Orlando City at Yankee Stadium on March 8, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Vincent Carchietta/Getty Images)
However, the Gazzetta dello Sport claim that Pirlo is emerging as a genuine candidate.
The 47-year-old was of course part of the squad that won the 2006 World Cup, and he is currently a coach in Dubai with United FC.
Official: Andrea Pirlo is the new head coach of the Dubai-based United FC of the UAE first division.
His management experience is limited to Juventus in 2020-21, where he won the Coppa Italia, then in the Turkish Super Lig with Karagumruk, and a brief spell at Sampdoria that ended in August 2024.
Pirlo knows both Maldini and Leonardo well from their time together at the successful Milan side, where the midfielder played from 2001 to 2011.
It is reported that Maldini had wanted to hire him as the coach of Milan in 2023.
Unlike the other alternatives on the list, Pirlo’s wage demands would not break the bank of the FIGC.
Anan Khalaili has not passed his medical tests with Inter, while Roma have confirmed that Paulo Dybala signed a contract extension until 2027. Check out today’s transfer news from Serie A and Italian football.
Paulo Dybala has officially signed a new contract at Roma, extending his stay in the capital until June 2027.
PARMA, ITALY – APRIL 05: Giuseppe Marotta Chairman of FC Internazionale looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma and FC Internazionale at Stadio Ennio Tardini on April 05, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Inter President Beppe Marotta announced at a press conference on the first day of pre-season that Anan Khalaili had failed his medical tests, so he would not be joining the club. According to Gazzetta, the Nerazzurri will now focus on Guela Doué, 23, currently under contract with Strasbourg.
Milan are waiting for offers for Rafael Leao and Santiago Gimenez. Neither has formal proposals on the table. However, according to Gazzetta, Aston Villa have enquired about another Milan player, Pervis Estupinan, who joined the Rossoneri a year ago from Brighton.
Juventus’ General Manager Giovanni Carnevali has spoken about negotiations with PSG for Randal Kolo Muani, warning: “The demands are too high, so either we reach an agreement, or we will turn to a different player.”
Regarding transfer speculation on Inter midfielder Davide Frattesi, Carnevali added: “He is an extraordinary lad who would do well at all big clubs, but we do not need a player of his characteristics.”
Elsewhere at the Allianz Stadium, according to Gazzetta, Leeds are the favourites to sign Tarik Muharemovic from Sassuolo, followed by Newcastle, Sunderland and Bournemouth. The Neroverdi’s asking price is €40m, which would be just €20m for Juventus, who hold a 50% sell-on clause.
The Bianconeri, however, have reportedly dropped out of the race after both the player and Sassuolo increased their financial demands. The Bianconeri would still be entitled to €20m if Muharemovic is sold for €40m.
Danilho Doekhi has arrived in Rome to undergo medical tests for Lazio before completing a free transfer. His contract with Union Berlin expired on June 30.
According to Sky, Lazio are also close to Dinamo Zagreb’s defender Sergi Dominguez, while Gazzetta maintains that the Biancocelesti won’t match the €15m asking price.
TORONTO, ONTARIO – JUNE 20: Christ Inao Oulai #26 of Cote d’Ivoire runs with the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E match between Germany and Cote D’Ivoire at Toronto Stadium on June 20, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Gazzetta adds that Bologna are interested in Carlos Espì, Levante centre-forward with a €25m release clause, while Fiorentina’s next target is Ivory Coast international Christ Inao Oulai, a central midfielder for Trabzonspor.
The Tuscans have also reached an agreement with Basel to sell Italian midfielder Jonas Harder, according to Sky.
Italy international Diego Coppola will land in Paris today to complete a permanent €20m transfer to Paris FC, where he spent the second half of the 2025-26 season on loan (via Gazzetta).
Atalanta are preparing an opening offer for Kerim Alajbegovic, with the Bayer Leverkusen talent open to joining La Dea, reports Sportitalia.
Genoa will take legal action against Elliot Stroud’s agents, as the Mjällby winger had reportedly signed a pre-contract agreement with the Grifone before making a late decision to join Hull City instead, according to Sky.
The Rossoblu are also preparing to welcome Hamed Traorè, a former Sassuolo and Bournemouth midfielder, who will undergo medical tests tomorrow.
Transfer round-up July 13 – official transfers
Valentino Lazaro from Torino to Al-Ain (free agent)
Alex Jimenez to Fiorentina from Bournemouth (loan)
Aston Villa are intensifying talks with Milan for Pervis Estupinan, as a replacement for Lucas Digne after Paris Saint-Germain decided to activate his release clause.
It has been a tough day for Aston Villa, because in the space of a few hours they learned that Manchester United would pay the €41m to trigger the clause for €41m, then that Paris Saint-Germain would do the same for Digne at circa €10m.
That won’t be completed until after Digne has finished playing in the World Cup with France, but it is a heads up for the Birmingham club to seek a replacement.
Estupinan to fill Digne gap at Aston Villa
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Pervis Estupinan of AC Milan walks off after receiving a red card during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Goncalo Ramos is showing just how eager he is to start his new Milan adventure, arriving at the training camp today despite still being on vacation after the World Cup with Portugal.
He was participating in the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico with Portugal, and as that experience just concluded in the quarter-final, he is due several more weeks of vacation time.
Goncalo Ramos pays surprise Milan visit
𝐕𝐎𝐆𝐋𝐈𝐀 𝐃𝐈 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐀𝐍
Sorpresa a Milanello: Gonçalo Ramos nonostante sia ancora in ferie è venuto a fare un primo salto e parlare con Ruben Amorim
It’s believed he wanted to get a good idea of the training facilities before coming to work in earnest over the summer, and will now return to Lisbon for more vacation time.
Roma midfielder Manu Koné could be benched in favour of Aurelien Tchaouameni for the World Cup semi-final against Spain, though Milan’s Mike Maignan and Adrien Rabiot will start.
The match is scheduled for Tuesday evening, with the winner going on to face either Argentina or England in the Final.
According to L’Equipe, Real Madrid midfielder Tchaoumeni has fully recovered from his muscular issues and is going to be risked from the start.
Koné set to step aside for France
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JULY 09: Manu Kone #6 of France and Ayyoub Bouaddi #6 of Morocco compete for the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between France and Morocco at Boston Stadium on July 09, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
Nonetheless, the reports from the Bleus camp suggest he will be pushed to the bench for the big match by Tchaouameni.
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – JUNE 30: Manu Kone #6 of France inspects the pitch before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32 match between France and Sweden at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 30, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
The Roma star was on the bench for the games against Senegal and Sweden, but started the others with Iraq, Norway, Paraguay and Morocco.
There is still going to be Serie A representation in the form of Milan pair Maignan and Rabiot.
The trio of Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembele and Kylian Mbappé are untouchable, but the other big choice for Didier Deschamps is between Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola.
Other than that, it is set to be the same XI that beat Morocco in the quarter-final.
He made only 22 competitive appearances for the Rossoneri last season, contributing one goal and one assist, but also getting sent off once.
Milan don’t want to keep Estupinan
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Pervis Estupinan of AC Milan controls the ball during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Estupinan is not believed to be part of Milan’s plans under new coach Ruben Amorim, so his agents are looking around for alternative solutions.
The big surprise for Italy is the arrival of Leonardo as a special advisor, as FIGC President Giovanni Malagò reveals it was ‘Paolo Maldini’s suggestion’ he be involved.
It was no secret that he was the first choice for new Federation chief Malagò, but an unexpected part of the announcement was the inclusion of Leonardo as an advisor.
Leonardo takes key role for Italy
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 16: AC Milan Sporting Strategy & Development Director Paolo Maldini and AC Milan Club Sporting Director Leonardo De Araujo before the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and AC Milan at Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia on February 16, 2019 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“From the start, Paolo told me that he would be happy to bring in Leonardo as a consultant, because there is a lot of work to be done, it’s going to be a tough challenge,” Malagò told TG2 Post.
“I am pleased too, because I have great respect for Leonardo. They are two sides of the same coin.”
The Brazilian turns 57 in September and has had a deep bond with Italian football for many years.
He played for Milan from 1997-2001, then again at the end of his career in 2002-03.
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: (L-R) Paolo Maldini and Leonardo of Milan look on before the Serie A match between AS Roma and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on February 3, 2019 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
After retirement, Leonardo started work with the Rossoneri as a talent scout, upgraded to technical director for 2008-09, and then as coach in 2009-10.
In a shock move, he then crossed over to city rivals Inter as coach in December 2010, where he remained until the end of the season.
Leonardo has since bounced around different jobs, including as Antalyaspor coach for just a few months in 2017.
He returned to Milan as technical director in 2018-19, where he worked alongside Maldini, and had two different spells at Paris Saint-Germain in 2011-13 and 2019-22.
Alessandro Costacurta claims the choice of Paolo Maldini as Italy technical director is ‘more important than the new coach’ of the Nazionale, while giving insight into the rapport with Leonardo.
EMPOLI, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Paolo Maldini of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Empoli FC and AC MIlan at Stadio Carlo Castellani on October 1, 2022 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
FIGC President Giovanni Malagò confirmed that Maldini was always his first choice for the position, and that now the technical director will be tasked with picking the new coach.
“Malagò made the best possible choice. In fact, picking Maldini is perhaps more important than choosing the new coach,” added Costacurta.
NAPLES, ITALY – JULY 12: Paolo Maldini AC Milan Technical director and Stefano Pioli AC Milan look on coach before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and AC Milan at Stadio San Paolo on July 12, 2020 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
“They have different characteristics. Leo is more of a dreamer, a visionary, whereas Paolo is more practical, looks to his knowledge and instinct,” noted Costacurta.
“The best thing about them is that they listen to each other, despite starting from different ideas, and always manage to find a common solution.”
Leonardo spent much of his career in Italy, as at Milan he was a player, a talent scout, a coach and a technical director, while he also had one season as coach of rivals Inter.
His most recent job was that of assistant technical director at Paris Saint-Germain.
Coach Ruben Amorim has named a 26-man squad for the first part of Milan pre-season training, including new buy Mario Gila, while some young and loan players will get a chance to impress him.
The Rossoneri come together at the Milanello training camp on Monday July 13, where the work really begins for the new tactician.
Gila is thrown straight into the mix after completing his transfer from Lazio, but Goncalo Ramos is still on vacation after Portugal’s World Cup campaign.
PISCATAWAY, NEW JERSEY – JULY 11: Goncalo Ramos #9 of Paris Saint-Germain looks on during a Paris Saint-Germain Training Session ahead of their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Final match between Chelsea FC and Paris Saint-Germain at Rutgers University on July 11, 2025 in Piscataway, New Jersey. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Amorim has said he wants to evaluate the squad at his disposal before making any further decisions on who Milan should buy or sell this summer.
Players returning from loan who are eager to impress him include Samuel Chukwueze, Francesco Camarda and Yunus Musah.
Youngsters trying to keep a spot at Milan include 18-year-old winger Aurelien Guernier, who just joined from Birmingham City, and striker Andrej Kostic.
Christian Comotto is fresh from Italy’s participation in the European Under-19 Championship.
Kevin Zeroli is not included, as he finished the season late with Juve Stabia in the Serie B promotion play-offs, but is not expected to remain with the Rossoneri.
Warren Bondo is not part of their plans and will work separately with a trainer until he can find a new club.
Milan squad for pre-season:
Bouyer, Pittarella, P Terracciano, Torriani; Athekame, Bartesaghi, Gabbia, Gila, Karaca, Odogu, Pavlovic, F Terracciano, Tomori; A Cisse, Comotto, Fofana, Loftus-Cheek, Musah, Ricci; Camarda, Chukwueze, Guernier, Idrissi, Kostic, Nkunku, Ossola
Reports in Italy claim that Ruben Amorim is interested in the possibility of reuniting with his former Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui, who remains under contract at Old Trafford until 2028.
Report: Milan head coach Amorim likes Manchester United defender Mazraoui
Milan are seeking new reinforcements for their defensive department this summer, and according to reports from Matteo Moretto on Fabrizio Romano’s YouTube channel, Mazraoui is a player and individual that Amorim likes.
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JULY 09: Noussair Mazraoui #3 of Morocco controls the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between France and Morocco at Boston Stadium on July 09, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
There have not been any direct talks between the two clubs at this stage, but the Morocco international is a player that is of interest to the Rossoneri according to the latest updates.
Mazraoui is under contract with Manchester United until the summer of 2028, with a club option to extend that deal for a further 12 months until the summer of 2029.
Ruben Amorim smiles at his first Milan press conference (acmilan.com)
The recently-eliminated World Cup quarter-finalist brings versatility that will be useful for Amorim in Milan. The Rossoneri played in a 3-5-2 under Massimiliano Allegri last term and are expected to start in a 3-4-2-1 under Amorim, and Mazraoui could feasibly cover in a number of roles in both of those formations, as he has done with Manchester United.
If Milan were to progress with a deal to sign Mazraoui, it is expected that they would seek to deploy him on the right of their back three.
The quarter-final stage of the 2026 World Cup is complete, and a total of six Serie A players will be progressing through to the tournament’s semi-finals, which will kick off with France vs. Spain on Tuesday evening.
France eliminated Morocco 2-0 in their quarter-final on Tuesday, Spain overcame Belgium 2-1, England defeated Norway 2-1 in extra-time on Saturday night and Argentina needed the full 120 minutes again to get past Switzerland in the early hours of Sunday morning, eventually finishing at 3-1.
Now, only six Serie A players are left heading into the World Cup semi-finals. Four of them represent France and two represent Argentina.
The France squad boasts Milan pair Mike Maignan and Adrien Rabiot, along with Roma midfielder Manu Kone and Inter forward Marcus Thuram. Argentina have Thuram’s regular strike partner Lautaro Martinez as well as Como superstar Nico Paz in their ranks.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JULY 04: Mike Maignan #16 of France celebrates after the 1-0 victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Paraguay and France at Philadelphia Stadium on July 04, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
A total of 15 Serie A players were eliminated at the quarter-final stage, including Norway’s quintet of Italian-based players: Morten Thorsby, Leo Ostigard, Marcus Holmgren Pedersen, Torbjorn Heggem and Kristian Thorstvedt.
Belgium also had five Serie A players in their ranks, namely Napoli pair Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, Milan duo Koni De Winter and Alexis Saelemaekers and Atalanta’s Charles De Ketelaere.
Roma’s Neil El-Aynaoui (Morocco) and Switzerland quartet Manuel Akani (Inter), Remo Freuler (Bologna), Ardon Jashari (Milan) and Michel Aebischer (Pisa) were the other Italian-based players to be eliminated during the World Cup quarter-finals.
Which Serie A players are left standing at the 2026 World Cup?
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – JUNE 30: Marcus Thuram #9 of France walks out of the tunnel with teammates for warm ups before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32 match between France and Sweden at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 30, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
France: Manu Kone (Roma), Marcus Thuram (Inter), Adrien Rabiot (Milan), Mike Maignan (Milan).
Paolo Maldini has officially been appointed as the new technical director of the FIGC (Italian FA) and will be joined by former Milan teammate Leonardo as an advisor, the federation has confirmed.
Official: Maldini appointed new FIGC technical director
The revolution of the Italy national team is well and truly underway: Former FIGC President Gabriele Gravina resigned following Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup at the end of March, as did head coach Gennaro Gattuso and delegation chief Gianluigi Buffon.
ROME, ITALY – JUNE 19: Gianluigi Buffon, Italy new head coach Gennaro Gattuso and FIGC president Gabriele Gravina pose during the press conference at Hotel Parco dei Principi on June 19, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Giovanni Malagò was elected as the successor to Gravina as the new President of the FIGC in June, and he has since been hard at work to appoint a new technical director, who will play a key role in the imminent appointment of a new head coach.
Legendary former Milan and Italy defender Maldini has been chosen as the new technical director of the FIGC, and according to recent reports, will have ‘unprecedented’ powers as he looks to rebuild a national team that has won four World Cups but has failed to qualify for the last three editions of the tournament.
He, along with advisor Leonardo, have signed four-year contracts with the Italy national team set-up, which is intended to take them through until the end of the 2030 World Cup.
“With great pleasure, Giovanni Malagò, President of the FIGC, announces that Paolo Maldini has accepted the position of the federation’s technical director,” read a statement on the FIGC website.
“Giovanni Malagò will also entrust Paolo Maldini with the Presidency of Club Italia.”
Malagò himself commented: “Maldini has always been my goal. I thought he would be the right person to oversee the technical sector of the FIGC, which doesn’t only involve the senior national team, but the entire supply chain of the youth national sides.
EMPOLI, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Paolo Maldini of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Empoli FC and AC MIlan at Stadio Carlo Castellani on October 1, 2022 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“Over the last two weeks, we have talked about all the projects, going into specifics, and Paolo immediately told me that he would like to involve Leonardo as a consultant because of the demanding, challenging and time-consuming nature of the role.
“I am happy, because I have deep respect for Leonardo. They are two sides of the same coin. It is a four-year commitment which must take us from now until 2030, the next World Cup, also passing through a European Championship.”
Up next for Maldini, Leonardo and Malagò is the appointment of a new head coach of the Italy national team. The latest reports indicate that Roberto Mancini is the current frontrunner, over challenger Antonio Conte.
Adrien Rabiot has sat down for a meeting with his mother-agent Veronique in the United States as he weighs up his next steps at club level, with Napoli and former Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri said to be keen on a reunion with the France international.
Rabiot meets with agent while weighing up Milan future
Rabiot is currently away in the United States with the France national team, who will be taking on Spain in the 2026 World Cup semi-final on Tuesday evening.
Back at club level, Rabiot remains under contract with Milan until the summer of 2028, but his future remains in doubt after just one season in San Siro following a disappointing end to the 2025-26 season, which saw the Rossoneri miss out on Champions League qualification and also led to the departure of Allegri, who brought Rabiot to the club from Marseille.
Since Allegri was appointed as the head coach of Napoli, there have been reports that he is keen to bring Rabiot with him. The pair have a long-standing relationship dating back to their time together at Juventus.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 23: Adrien Rabiot of AC Milan applauds the fans following the final whistle of the Coppa Italia Frecciarossa Round of 16 match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
While the Frenchman is not expected to make any definitive decisions about his club career until his World Cup campaign is complete, reports from various outlets in Italy confirm that the midfielder sat down for a meeting with his mother-agent Veronique in the United States over the weekend to start discussing potential options for the 2026-27 season.
Milan’s stance is clear: They and new head coach Ruben Amorim are keen to keep hold of Rabiot, who was credited as being one of Milan’s most consistent performers in 2025-26 with five goals and six assists to his name in the league.
TURIN, ITALY – DECEMBER 08: Adrien Rabiot of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Matteo Gabbia during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on December 08, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
La Gazzetta dello Sport indicates that Rabiot, at this stage, is not intending to leave Milan either, aware of the fact that he has two years remaining on a lucrative contract in San Siro. However, nothing can be ruled out in the time being and much depends on whether Napoli step forwards with an enticing offer for Rabiot and for Milan.
Sunday’s reports claim that Inter could challenge their city-rivals Milan to the signing of right-back Guela Doué following the concerns that cropped up during Anan Khalaili’s medical.
Inter and Milan both keen on Strasbourg’s Doué
Inter are on the hunt for a new starting right wing-back after losing Denzel Dumfries to Real Madrid. The Nerazzurri had initially target a deal for Marco Palestra from Atalanta, but he has since joined Chelsea in a big-money move instead.
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – MAY 14: Anan Khalaili of Union Saint-Gilloise lifts the trophy following his teams 3-1 win in the Coupe de Belgique Final match between Union Saint-Gilloise and RSC Anderlecht at Stade Roi Baudouin on May 14, 2026 in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images)
Khalaili was the next target and a deal had been agreed with Union Saint-Gilloise, but the Israel international now needs further medical checks, with reports on Sunday indicating that there were concerns over potential heart issues during those tests with the doctors.
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, if Inter are unable to get Khalaili over the line, then their next alternative will be Strasbourg right-back Doué, who has also been linked with a move to Milan this summer.
Doué, an Ivory Coast international and older brother of France star Désiré, has been linked with a move to Serie A on several occasions in the past, including to Milan in the summer of 2025.
Malago lands his first target. The Azzurri legend will be the new technical director, will be accompanied by Leonardo. Signed a four-year contract, will nominate the new CT within the next week
Sinner, make history
Jannik looking for a fantastic double
Wimbledon final against Zverev, whom he has beaten in his last nine matches. The Italian could earn his place among the Wimbledon greats
Bellingham fairytale
England in the semi-finals, Norway knocked out
Khalaili stop
Problem with the medicals in Milan
The winger needs more heart tests, Inter on Guela Doue
Corriere dello Sport
Milan, Italia
The national team turnaround: Malago calls Paolo, Leonardo is his advisor
Maldini as new technical director | The Azzurri relaunch, full powers to two former Rossoneri
The FIGC President’s relaunch begins: Four-year contract signed. The surprise is the inclusion of the Brazilian. Now the choice for CT: Mancini is the favourite
Turn it on, it’s Sinner
Wimbledon at 16.00 (Sky and TV 8), Jannik for the double
He could win his first slam of the season and replicate his 2025 triumph against Alcaraz. Now it’s Zverev, transformed from his success in Paris
Inter, Khalaili at risk
Announcement postponed: CONI asks for further checks
Amorim, doubts about Rabiot
Future in question
The Mother Veronique talks to Milan: Decision postponed
Viola boom: Jimenez
Fourth signing
The Spanish full-back arrives on loan from Bournemouth
Juve-Kolo obstacle course
Also difficulties for Dibu
An extra-large squad: Selling is Carnevali’s priority
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‘I know what the problems are’
Tuttosport
Sinner, our World Cup
Wimbledon on TV 8 at 16.00, Jannik looking for the second title in a row against Zverev. With him, Italy hopes to make up for the World Cup flop
Juve goal, Hope for Suzuki now. Pellegrino maybe, here’s Ederson again
The Dibu stall could open a double deal with Parma
Carnevali doesn’t want to spend more than 8 million on the Argentine goalkeeper, the Japanese is champing at the bit. The first offer for the centre-forward is turned down, but there’s hope. The Brazilian intrigues Spalletti after United’s no because of physical doubts. Muharemovic, Ekhator the key
Maldinin Azzurri technical director with Leonardo
Malago has convinced the former Milan captain: The Brazilian as his advisor
Four-year contract: A symbol of the national team ever since he was a boy, Paolo will also be President of Club Italia. He also worked with his former teammate as a director with the Rossoneri. Now one week to make a decision on the CT
The fans’ test for Toro
The first open training session under Abate, then setting off for the pre-season retreat. In goal: Perri the closest option
Inter freeze on Khalaili
Stop after the visits
New heart tests have been requested for the Israeli. Guela Doue is the Plan B: Battle with Milan
Paolo Maldini has agreed to become the Italian federation’s new technical director, taking on a role created specifically for him as the FIGC begins the task of rebuilding the national team.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Milan and Italy legend has accepted the proposal of new federation president Giovanni Malagò after a long wait, signing a four-year contract on terms described as favourable to the FIGC.
Maldini will serve as technical director and president of Club Italia, a position without precedent in the federation, with sweeping responsibility that extends beyond appointing the next head coach to overseeing the entire national-team pathway.
In a surprise addition, Leonardo, his former Milan teammate and colleague, joins him in an advisory capacity.
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 16: AC Milan Sporting Strategy & Development Director Paolo Maldini and AC Milan Club Sporting Director Leonardo De Araujo before the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and AC Milan at Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia on February 16, 2019 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Maldini and Leonardo to lead search for new Italy coach
The pair’s first task is the most pressing: identifying the man to lead the Azzurri into the next cycle. The names favoured by Malagò have been circulating for some time, Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini foremost among them, and it now remains to be seen whether they meet with the approval of the new technical leadership.
The appointment lands at the lowest ebb in the national team’s modern history. Italy have missed three consecutive World Cups, watching this summer’s tournament from home while former internationals queue up to lament the decline.
The project, as framed by the federation, is to relaunch the Azzurri with the next World Cup as the horizon, and in turning to Maldini, a man who lifted five European Cups and embodied Italian defending for a quarter of a century, the FIGC has reached for the most respected figure available.
For Maldini, it marks a return to the front line three years on from his acrimonious exit as Milan’s technical director, this time with the weight of a footballing nation’s expectations on his shoulders.
Milan have turned their attention to Guéla Doué, opening talks with the defender’s representatives over a possible move to San Siro.
According to Tuttosport, via MilanNews.it, the Rossoneri have made contact with the entourage of the Strasbourg defender, who is said to be enthusiastic about the prospect of joining.
The Ivory Coast international racked up 34 appearances for the Ligue 1 club last season.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Rafael Leao of AC Milan battles for possession with Guela Doue of Stade Rennais during the UEFA Europa League 2023/24 Knockout Round Play-offs First Leg match between AC Milan and Stade Rennais FC at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on February 15, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan ready to offer Doue five-year deal
Milan are prepared to hand the defender a five-year contract worth €2.5 million per season plus bonuses, though an agreement with Strasbourg still needs to be struck before the deal can move forward.
The interest fits the defensive overhaul Ruben Amorim has prioritised since taking charge.
Milan have already brought in Mario Gila, and with Fikayo Tomori’s future uncertain amid interest from Juventus, the club regard a further defender as a priority.
Doué, young and fresh off a full campaign in France, offers exactly the profile they are chasing.
Mario Balotelli has made Inter the team to beat in Serie A next season, but the striker named Roma as his surprise pick to gatecrash the title race.
According to Sport Mediaset, via TuttoMercatoWeb, Balotelli, now with Al-Ittifaq in Dubai, predicted champions Inter to remain at the summit while singling out an outsider.
Asked whether Napoli, Milan and Juventus were genuine contenders, he replied: “Yes, but I want to add a surprise: Roma.” On the reigning champions, he was unequivocal: “Inter remain the team to beat.”
That verdict chimed with his admiration for former Inter teammate Cristian Chivu, now in the San Siro dugout.
“He was always switched on, even as a player, already a coach on the pitch, tactically ready and intelligent,” Balotelli said of the man he won the 2010 treble alongside.
Mario Balotelli acts as fashion model for KidSuper runway show.
Balotelli reveals near-Juventus move and backs Allegri at Napoli
The former Manchester City man also lifted the lid on a transfer that never materialised.
“Yes, after Manchester City. Then I ended up at Milan, so no regrets, it was a choice,” he said. “Of course, that Juventus side was strong.”
He had warm words, too, for Massimiliano Allegri as the coach starts afresh at Napoli. “Recently I’ve read a lot of criticism of him, but when I had him at Milan I liked him a great deal,” Balotelli said. “If he’s still that man, he’ll do well.”
There was a more sombre note when talk turned to the national side. Balotelli remains Italy’s last World Cup scorer, a mark unbroken since 2014, with the Azzurri absent from a third straight tournament this summer, and he took no pride in it.
“It’s nothing to be proud of, quite the opposite, it’s a sad thing,” he said. “Too many years have passed.”
Ciro Immobile has installed Inter as the team to beat in Serie A next season, pointing to the upheaval among their closest rivals as the champions’ biggest edge.
“I think Inter are favourites. I’ve seen a lot of managerial changes and therefore a need to settle, whereas they’re already well-drilled,” he said. “Milan, Napoli and Juventus have to gear up to trouble them.”
That churn is hard to argue with. Milan are starting afresh under Ruben Amorim, Napoli have replaced Antonio Conte with Massimiliano Allegri, and Juventus continue to build around Luciano Spalletti.
Inter, by contrast, keep faith with Cristian Chivu and the spine that carried them to the Scudetto, a stability their pursuers cannot currently match.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Cristian Chivu of FC Internazionale celebrates after winning the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Immobile weighs in on Italy’s Conte-or-Mancini call
Immobile also turned to the vacant Italy job, with the succession appearing to come down to Conte or Mancini. On that, he refused to split them.
“They’ve both done well. I remember we did well at the Euros with Conte too, after ending up in a group with Spain and Germany,” he said. “Mancini’s was the last winning Italy side, one that left a nice memory for the children of today too.”
Having played under both men with the Azzurri, Immobile is well placed to judge, and his verdict offers little to separate two of the frontrunners now being weighed to lead Italy’s rebuild.
Fiorentina are on the verge of a surprise signing, with Alex Jimenez set to join from Bournemouth and return to Serie A.
According to Sky Sport and Gianluca Di Marzio, via FirenzeViola, the Viola have wrapped up a loan deal with an option to buy set at €20 million.
The move is at an advanced stage, with the Spaniard already in Florence and undergoing his medical after completing the first round of tests earlier in the day.
BRIGHTON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 19: Alex Jimenez of Bournemouth in action during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Bournemouth at Amex Stadium on January 19, 2026 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Fiorentina to land ex-Milan full-back Jimenez on loan
The 2005-born right-back arrives to bolster Fabio Grosso’s options down the flank, and the switch reunites him with Italian football after a brief spell in the Premier League.
The Cherries have opted to cash in barely six months later, moving him on this window after an off-the-pitch scandal involving supposed online messages with a teenage girl.
For Fiorentina, it represents an opportunistic piece of business: a young, Serie A-proven defender secured on a loan that hands them the choice, rather than the obligation, of a permanent deal further down the line.
Juventus have revived their interest in Fikayo Tomori, roughly 18 months after a move for the Milan defender collapsed when the player turned it down.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, via CalcioMercato, the Bianconeri are once again weighing up the centre-back, drawn to his experience and Serie A grounding, a profile that fits Luciano Spalletti’s wishes.
Any deal, however, depends on outgoings. Giovanni Carnevali’s hierarchy want to lighten the squad before adding to it, and Federico Gatti is among those who could make way.
Squeezed out by Bremer and seeking more regular minutes, Gatti would command a fee that generates a healthy profit, with Napoli and moves to Turkey lingering in the background as possible routes out.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Federico Gatti of Juventus celebrates scoring their third goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Juventus ready to move for Tomori if Gatti departs
Should Gatti go, Juventus are prepared to press ahead for Tomori.
The England international, whose Milan contract expires in 2027, looks set for a reduced role following the arrival of Gila, and this time may be more open to a switch than he was previously.
For Milan, a sale would raise funds; for Juventus, it represents a market opportunity, but only once space has been cleared.
Tomori has been a mainstay at San Siro since joining in 2021, racking up 214 appearances and seven goals, and helping the club to the 2022 Scudetto and the Supercoppa Italiana.
Whether his Milan chapter now nears its end may hinge, in the first instance, on what Juventus can do at the other end of their own defence.
Mario Gila has spoken for the first time since completing his move to Milan, crediting the club’s standing and Ruben Amorim’s vision as the factors that swayed him.
“I chose Milan because it’s one of the strongest teams in the world. The history it has and everything around it was exactly what I needed to reach a certain level,” Gila said.
“We can do many great things, there are lots of objectives and I promise to help the team by giving everything I have. It’s a wonderful challenge for me. The coach’s ideas and everything that Milan represents led me to choose the Rossoneri.”
Mario Gila shows off Milan jersey (@acmilan)
Gila eager to get started under Amorim at Milanello
The centre-back made no secret of his excitement at joining the club, and at the prospect of getting to work under his new coach.
“I was very emotional about arriving at such an important club. These have been days full of positive emotions and I’m very happy,” he added.
“I’m someone who feels comfortable anywhere, and I’m sure I’ll settle in well with my teammates. I’m really curious to see Milanello, the fans will be there on Monday. I can’t wait to meet the coach and see how he works.”
Gila becomes Milan’s second major arrival of the summer, following the club-record capture of Gonçalo Ramos, and forms part of the defensive overhaul Amorim has prioritised since taking charge.
Adrien Rabiot has played down speculation about his Milan future for now, insisting talks with new head coach Ruben Amorim can wait until after the World Cup.
The midfielder, a key figure in an impressive France campaign, was approached by Rai outside Didier Deschamps’ squad base.
Asked whether Amorim had been in contact with him in recent days, with quotes via CalcioMercato, Rabiot kept it brief: “We’ll speak later on.”
The midfielder is evidently keen to stay locked in on the tournament, with France facing Spain in the semi-final on Tuesday at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington.
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – MARCH 26: Adrien Rabiot of France kicks the ball during the international friendly match between Brazil and France at Gillette Stadium on March 26, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)
Rabiot’s mother hints at Milan stay
Present alongside him was his mother and agent, Veronique, who manages her son’s affairs.
She rarely gives interviews, but according to the Rai reporter she left the impression that she still sees Rabiot’s future in the red and black.
Once the World Cup concludes, the player is expected to speak again with Amorim, who is said to be intent on making Rabiot a central part of his Milan project.
However, without first offloading Frank Anguissa, the Partenopei are unable to make new additions in midfield, a constraint that, for now, keeps the door at San Siro looking the more likely one.
Paolo Maldini still hasn’t decided whether to accept the FIGC offer to become Italy’s technical director, but Giovanni Malagò will only wait until tomorrow, according to Gazzetta.
Italian legend Maldini remains the FIGC’s main target for the technical director role.
Italy keep waiting for Maldini’s decision
It’s a key position in the rebuilding of the Azzurri, as the technical director will have an input in choosing the new head coach and oversee the activities of the national teams, from the youth teams to the first squad.
The meeting between Malagò and Maldini, which was scheduled for Friday, didn’t take place, according to Gazzetta, and the FIGC President is now waiting for the ex-defender’s final decision.
Malagò has stressed that he’ll make a final decision on the technical director by the end of the week, which means he’ll only wait until tomorrow for Maldini.
EMPOLI, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Paolo Maldini of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Empoli FC and AC MIlan at Stadio Carlo Castellani on October 1, 2022 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Gazzetta confirms that Malagò has already identified potential alternatives to Maldini, but he remains confident that the Milan legend will accept the offer, so he has not yet opened talks with other candidates.
Repubblica reported on Friday that Demetrio Albertini, Gianfranco Zola and Giuseppe Bergomi are seen as potential alternatives if Maldini rejects the FIGC proposal.
Transfer expert Sacha Tavolieri reports that Milan star Rafael Leao has decided to drop his agent and rely on a group of lawyers for his future, while a local agency will represent him for a potential transfer in the Saudi Pro League.
Milan star Leao has decided to ‘stop using a dedicated agent’ and has started working with ‘several lawyers’, according to transfer expert Sacha Tavolieri.
Rafael Leao drops his agent ahead of potential Milan exit
HOUSTON, TEXAS – JUNE 23: Rafael Leao #17 of Portugal celebrates scoring his team’s fifth goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K match between Portugal and Uzbekistan at Houston Stadium on June 23, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Getty Images)
Leao has a €175m release clause at Milan, but the Rossoneri are reportedly looking to sell for at least €60m.
Earlier this summer, Leao admitted that he’d seek a new challenge during the summer transfer window, but no formal offer has yet arrived from any club in Europe’s top-five leagues.
Other sources have reported that Leao has been offered to a number of English clubs, including Tottenham, who don’t appear to be interested in the Portuguese.
According to Tavolieri, initial interest from the Saudi Pro League has already emerged, with Leao now represented by a local agency for a potential transfer to Saudi Arabia.
Mario Gila believes he can ‘reach my full potential’ at Milan and recognises the ‘weight’ of the pressure here, then sends a farewell message to Lazio through tears.
He put pen to paper on a contract at San Siro until June 2031 and will wear the Number 34 jersey.
Gila eager to get started with Milan
Mario Gila shows off Milan jersey (@acmilan)
“We can do great things together. I feel like I can reach my full potential here,” Gila told the official club social media channels.
“I think that I can help the team in every phase,” added the Spaniard.
“I’m a real perfectionist; I never give up, and I always aim as high as I can in every aspect of my life, whether that’s on or off the pitch.”
AC Milan announce arrival of Mario Gila from Lazio (acmilan.com)
Although he came up through the Real Madrid youth academy, Gila recognises that Milan represent a different kind of pressure to playing for Lazio.
“This shirt has a really special weight to it, which I’m aware of. I’m here to learn and give my all on the pitch in order to reach the levels that have made AC Milan great.”
Gila then recorded a video message that was published on the official Lazio website to salute his old fans after four years at the Stadio Olimpico.
“Hey guys, how are you? I think this is a goodbye. I want to thank all of you, it’s been emotional since the first moment I arrived here. I was a little kid who just got the first sensation of being a professional football player, but over time I found people and situations to make me who I am today.
“Thank you to the fans, my teammates, to the staff who work inside and outside the dressing room, to my family, those who always believed in me. I thank you all for what you gave me.
“Lazio believe that you can do better things and I too am sure of that. You deserve everything, you are an incredible club. You gave me so much love, made me feel important. I don’t know if I’ll feel that kind of love elsewhere, because this city is incredible and will always remain in my heart.
“I say goodbye to you with an immense pain in my heart. Forza Lazio always,” he added through tears.
Rafael Leao was proposed to Tottenham Hotspur, claims transfer pundit Fabrizio Romano, but Roberto De Zerbi’s club are so far not interested in making an offer to Milan.
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Rafael Leao of AC Milan looks dejected during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
The Portugal international put himself on the market this summer when giving several interviews assuring that he had given his all to the Rossoneri, so was ready for the next adventure.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Rafael Leao of AC Milan warms up prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Instead, Leao’s intermediaries proposed him to Spurs, who were not particularly excited by the idea of signing the winger.
The desire to separate goes two ways, because Leao is only under contract until June 2028 and Milan have no intention of offering an extension, eager to get his wages off the books.
That is effectively confirmed by new coach Ruben Amorim, who said that the ‘ideal’ position for Christian Pulisic is on the left side of a trident attack.
That is the position currently held by Leao, forcing the USMNT star to shift over onto the right.
So far, the only genuine interest in him has come from Benfica and Galatasaray.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 15: Mario Gila SS Lazio celebrates a victory after the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on March 15, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
The defender is a product of the Real Madrid youth academy and was sold to Lazio for just €6m in the summer of 2022.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 12: Mario Gila during SS Lazio’s training session before the SS Lazio and FC Internazionale match in the Coppa Italia final at the Formello Sport Centre on May 12, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Gila turns 26 next month and had also been in talks with Napoli, Juventus and Atalanta, but preferred the project put forward to him by the Rossoneri and their new coach Ruben Amorim.
Multiple sources report the cost of the operation was €25m plus €5m in add-ons, while the player has put pen to paper on a five-year contract.
Atalanta have intensified talks with Kerim Alajbegovic, claim Sky Sport Italia, but Roma and Milan are among those still interested in the Bayer Leverkusen talent.
That was a sale for €2m last summer, with the buy-back option set at just €8m activated on July 1.
Alajbegovic impressed at World Cup
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JUNE 24: Kerim Alajbegovic #19 of Bosnia and Herzegovina scores his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group B match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Qatar at Seattle Stadium on June 24, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
He scored 13 goals with four assists in 44 competitive games for RB Salzburg, then became a hero for Bosnia and Herzegovina when scoring decisive goals in their World Cup play-offs.
This form continued at the tournament itself, where he started three of Bosnia’s four matches, scoring a sensational solo strike.
Primarily playing down the left wing, but also able to work on the right or as a trequartista behind a striker, Alajbegovic has caught the eye of numerous top clubs.
Sky Sport Italia claim that Atalanta are stepping up negotiations with his entourage in the hope of convincing him before they begin the real talks with his club.
Milan owner Gerry Cardinale insists the new Rossoneri management works ‘as a team’ but notes: ‘I approve every single cent, and I’m the only one who gives the final green light on the transfer market.’
Cardinale: ‘I’m the only one who gives the final green light on the transfer market’
“No one at Milan has approval rights at any threshold in the transfer market, apart from me,” said the Milan owner.
“I approve every single cent, and I’m the only one who gives the final green light on the transfer market.”
The Rossoneri have already secured two summer signings. They first signed Portugal international Gonçalo Ramos from PSG in a deal worth up to €70m, including add-ons.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 03: Gerry Cardinale of AC Milan looks on before the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on September 03, 2022 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Lazio’s Mario Gila is now in Milan to undergo medical tests with the Rossoneri before completing a €30m transfer. This means the Rossoneri have already invested circa €100m in new acquisitions this summer.
“In the way we operate, my power of approval is one-sided,” Cardinale continued.
“And then one important thing: as I said at the press conference, we do things as a team. So the team will continue to make recommendations, and we will work together.
“We have a lot of input from the coach and my team. But in the end, when the time comes to make a decision, I approve it.”
Milan failed to reach the Champions League in the 2025-26 season, so Massimiliano Allegri was sacked and replaced by ex-Manchester United boss Amorim, who has signed a three-year contract at San Siro.
Amorim outlined his ambitions for the Rossoneri, while Cardinale reiterated the club’s commitment to building a competitive side capable of challenging both domestically and in Europe.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 03: Gerry Cardinale of AC Milan looks on before the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on September 03, 2022 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The summer transfer window has already seen Milan make an early statement with the arrivals of Gonçalo Ramos and Mario Gila, strengthening both the attack and the defence ahead of the new campaign.
However, the club’s business is far from complete, with several areas of the squad still expected to be reinforced before the window closes.
Ruben Amorim smiles at his first Milan press conference (acmilan.com)
In today’s episode of the Football Italia Summer Show, Lorenzo Bettoni is joined by SempreMilan’s Ben Dixon to analyse Amorim’s first press conference, discuss the significance of Milan’s early signings, and examine the club’s transfer strategy under Cardinale’s ownership.
Lazio defender Mario Gila has arrived for his medical tests with Milan before completing a €30m deal.
Spanish centre-back Gila arrived at the La Madonnina clinic in Milan this morning to undergo medical tests with the Rossoneri.
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Mario Gila of SS Lazio prior the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Napoli at Stadio Olimpico on February 15, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio shared the video of Gila’s arrival at the private clinic, which you can see below.
Multiple sources claim that the deal is worth €30m, including add-ons. Gila had only a year left on his contract with Lazio.
A former Real Madrid Castilla player, Gila, 26, will sign his contract with Milan later today.
Video: Gila begins Milan medical
Gila è arrivato alla Casa di Cura La Madonnina per le visite mediche con il @acmilan. Nel pomeriggio è prevista la firma del contratto pic.twitter.com/TqvS7JgpwV
According to La Repubblica, Paolo Maldini will decide today whether to accept the offer to become Italy’s technical director, but the outlook appears pessimistic so FIGC President Giovanni Malagò has identified three potential alternatives, including Gianfranco Zola.
Former Milan and Italy defender Maldini will sit down with FIGC President Malagò for one final meeting today, according to La Repubblica.
Maldini and Malagò set for showdown talks today
Maldini has an offer to become Italy’s technical director, and already talked to Malagò several times in recent weeks, including on Thursday.
According to Repubblica, however, it’s becoming increasingly unlikely that Maldini will ultimately accept Malagò’s proposal.
EMPOLI, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Paolo Maldini of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Empoli FC and AC MIlan at Stadio Carlo Castellani on October 1, 2022 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Malagò has already offered Maldini unprecedented power as Italy’s technical director, even allowing him to choose the new head coach.
According to Repubblica, however, the former defender is unlikely to accept the offer, primarily because of the impact it would have on his private life, as the role would require him to leave Milan and spend significant time working in Rome or at Italy’s training centre in Coverciano, Florence.
Maldini will inform Malagò about his final decision today, but it’s far from guaranteed that he will provide a positive answer.
According to Repubblica, another ex-Milan star, Demetrio Albertini, would jump to the top of Malagò’s list if Maldini rejects the offer, but Chelsea and Cagliari legend Gianfranco Zola and Inter and Italy legend Beppe Bergomi are also among the names being considered by the FIGC chief.
Fiorentina have completed their third summer signing by welcoming Arthur Atta from Udinese, while Inter have secured a deal with Union Saint-Gilloise for Anan Khalaili. Check out today’s most important transfer news in the latest Football Italia transfer show.
Juventus are keen to strengthen between the posts ahead of the new season, with talks ongoing as they explore the financial details of a move for Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez.
Top Serie A transfer news: July 9
Fiorentina have completed their third signing of the summer, securing the arrival of promising midfielder Arthur Atta from Udinese. The Viola continue to reinforce their squad as they prepare for the upcoming campaign, with the club showing no signs of slowing down in the transfer market.
Arthur Atta arrives for his Fiorentina medical tests (@acffiorentina)ROME, ITALY – MAY 17: Mario Gila of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Doneyll Malen of AS Rom during the Serie A match between AS Roma and SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico on May 17, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Elsewhere in Serie A, Milan are preparing to welcome Mario Gila, who has left Rome today.
Roma, on the other hand, are being forced to consider alternative attacking targets after Mason Greenwood moved closer to joining Fenerbahce.
With the English forward now expected to continue his career in Turkey, the Giallorossi have shifted their focus to other options as they aim to strengthen their forward line before the transfer window closes.
From Juventus’ pursuit of a world-class goalkeeper to Fiorentina’s latest addition, as well as the latest developments involving Milan and Roma, there is plenty happening across Serie A.
Check out today’s transfer update video for all the latest news, rumours and analysis from the Italian transfer market.
Serie A players Mike Maignan, Adrien Rabiot and Manu Koné start for France in the first World Cup quarter-final against Morocco and Roma’s Neil El Aynaoui and Anass Salah-Eddine.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JULY 04: Adrien Rabiot #14 of France arrives at the stadium before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Paraguay and France at Philadelphia Stadium on July 04, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
France are the absolute favourites to win the tournament, having been the beaten finalists four years ago, and winning every match so far, even if they had to leave it late to defeat Paraguay 1-0 in the Round of 16.
Inter striker Marcus Thuram returns to the bench after his injury concerns.
Désiré Doué is preferred to Bradley Barcola in the starting XI, alongside untouchable Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé and Kylian Mbappé.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JULY 04: Mike Maignan #16 of France celebrates after the 1-0 victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Paraguay and France at Philadelphia Stadium on July 04, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
Morocco are not to be underestimated, because they are officially unbeaten in 34 matches, although there is still legal action from Senegal over who really won the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations final.
Roma have two players in the squad, midfielder El Aynaoui and left-back Anass Salah-Eddine, who spent last season out on loan.
Bayern Munich star Ismael Saibari is out injured after limping off in the win over Canada.
Former Serie A players include ex-Milan man Brahim Diaz, Achraf Hakimi at Inter, and former Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat.
With Mario Gila’s move to Milan now agreed, Lazio have wasted no time in lining up his successor, turning their attention to Sergi Dominguez.
According to Sky Sport, sporting director Angelo Fabiani has travelled to Croatia to meet Dinamo Zagreb in a bid to get the deal over the line.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Mario Gila of SS Lazio reacts during the Coppa Italia final match at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – Getty Images)
Lazio target Dinamo Zagreb’s Dominguez to fill Gila void
Dinamo value the young defender at €12 million, a figure Lazio are hoping to reach through the inclusion of bonuses.
Fabiani’s personal trip underlines how seriously the Biancocelesti are pursuing the centre-back, whom new head coach Gennaro Gattuso has earmarked as a priority reinforcement for his backline.
Dominguez, 21, is a product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy who left the Catalan club for Dinamo Zagreb last summer.
He announced himself immediately in Croatia, playing a central role in the side that swept the domestic double, and his performances quickly drew attention from across Europe. Barcelona, for their part, stand to benefit from a sell-on clause included in that transfer.
For Lazio, the Spaniard represents a younger, long-term profile to inherit the shirt vacated by his compatriot Gila.
Should Fabiani succeed in bridging the gap to Dinamo’s valuation, Lazio will have moved swiftly to turn the proceeds of one Spanish centre-back’s sale into the arrival of another.
Mario Gila is set to undergo his Milan medical tests on Friday, completing the transfer from Lazio for €30m, with half of that going to Real Madrid.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Mario Gila of SS Lazio reacts during the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
The defender turns 26 next month and has been at the Stadio Olimpico since 2022, but was down to the final year of his contract.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 12: Mario Gila during SS Lazio’s training session before the SS Lazio and FC Internazionale match in the Coppa Italia final at the Formello Sport Centre on May 12, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Multiple sources this evening state that Gila will be in Milan tonight, so he can undergo the necessary medical tests on Friday.
He is then ready to sign a five-year contract worth €5m net per season, while his agent is expected to pocket €5m in commission.
Lazio are only getting 50 per cent of the €30m fee, thanks to the arrangement they had agreed with Real Madrid when buying the defender for just €6m in 2022.
As part of the deal, La Gazzetta dello Sport claim that Milan will also buy Lazio youth team left-back Lorenzo Calvani for €2.5m.
This is €30m for the total, specifically €27m plus some easy to achieve add-ons.
Milan and USMNT star Christian Pulisic will be out of action for circa six weeks after scans confirmed he suffered a microfracture during the World Cup.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 11: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan reacts after seeing his team concede a third goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Udinese Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 11, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The forward struggled with several injury problems and poor form in recent months for both club and country, which did not improve by much at the tournament where USA were hosting with Canada and Mexico.
He limped off during the Round of 16 defeat to Belgium, 4-1 on the day, and there were immediately concerns it could be a serious setback.
Pulisic scans show extent of injury
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 12: Christian Pulisic #10 of the United States looks on as he walks off at the end of the first half during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match between USA and Paraguay at Los Angeles Stadium on June 12, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
Now multiple reports in America and Italy confirm that Pulisic has been diagnosed with bone bruising and a microfracture of the tibia/fibula.
He was spotted on crutches the next day at the team hotel, raising worries that this could be a long-term absence.
This could enable him to be back in training for the start of the new Serie A season on August 23, where Milan begin the tournament against Torino.
The former Chelsea man had scored 10 goals with four assists in 34 competitive games for Milan last season, but notably none of those goals were in 2026.
He hasn’t found the net for his club since the 3-0 win over Verona on December 28, firing blanks in the successive 19 matches.
Luka Modric looks likely to remain at Milan, according to Fabrizio Romano, and meanwhile, a defender the Rossoneri had previously considered completed a move elsewhere.
Romano reports, via MilanNews.it, that left-back Fran Garcia has joined Real Betis from Real Madrid for €3 million plus bonuses, with Madrid retaining a 50% sell-on.
Intriguingly, the influencer suggests the Spaniard could easily have ended up at San Siro under different circumstances.
Had the Rossoneri’s previous hierarchy stayed in place, sporting director Igli Tare, chief executive Giorgio Furlani and coach Massimiliano Allegri, and had the club reached the Champions League, Romano believes Fran Garcia would likely have signed for them, with discussions between the club and his representatives having reached a concrete, fairly advanced stage without ever being formally concluded.
MAY 24: Luka Modric looks on after the Serie A match at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 24, 2026. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Modric to stay at Milan despite summer of change
The change of management and direction shifted those plans, but one strand of Milan’s thinking has not altered.
Romano is clear that Modric’s situation stands apart: the veteran is regarded as a champion who transcends any single coach or set of executives, and his affection for the club is expected to see him continue in the red and black.
It offers a note of continuity amid a period of upheaval at Milan, with new leadership in place, Ruben Amorim now installed as coach and the squad being reshaped after a campaign that ended outside the Champions League places.
From Italy’s World Cup celebrations to Malagoo’s mission, the yes from Maldini, then Conte to return to being one of the greats
Seeing the star
Amorim, what a presentation
The Milan coach: ‘We want to win the 20th Scudetto’
Mbappe without limits
Onto the Morocco-France quarter-final
Hakimi stands between him, the semi-final and the top scorer status
Corriere dello Sport
Amorim, off to a good start
‘A dominant Milan, I am different to Allegri’
Ruben’s battles | From comparisons to Mou and Max (42 trophies between them) and the promises
He wants to make up for his sacking at United: ‘We’re aiming for the second star. Modric? I hope he stays’. Cardinale: ‘A new era, results and exciting football’
Mbappe commanding, Norway nervous
World Cup: The Morocco trap for France. Olise on a booking
Kylian reserves a spot in the semi-final: The Hakimi obstacle. Deschamps joke about the referee: ‘I hope we’re as strong as Letexier’. Virus alarms in Haaland’s national team camp: Fever and coughs
Juve surprise, Solet attempt
The meeting with Udinese
The Frenchman is the new idea in defence. Interest in the Dane Kristensen as well. Distance for Dibu Martinez
Vergara alarms, renewal blocked
There is no agreement with Napoli
Breaks slammed on during negotiations: There is no agreement on salary. 25 million from Atalanta refused
Inter, it’s Doue if not Khalaili
The heir to Dumfries
Ivorian, 23 years old, plays for Strasbourg: He’s the alternative to the Israeli, who will cost 30 million from Union SG
Greenwood and Roma, the snub is near
Fenerbahce overtaken
All in from the Turks: 50 million to Marseille and 11 net per season for Mason. Friedkins frozen: No relaunch
Tuttosport
Lucumi, Juve-Inter tease
Marotta steps aside for Solet, but now challenges the Bianconeri for the Colombian
The hottest rivalry in Italian football reignites on the transfer market. The conditions to keep Vlahovic: A Yildiz-style salary for two seasons. Meanwhile, Carnevali asks Divu Martinez to convince Aston Villa to lower their demands. The first meeting between Spalletti and Massara takes place today
‘Toro, offers no, but interest yes’
Cairo’s admission: ‘There are some looking at the club’s accounts’
The President: ‘I haven’t received any binding offers yet, though some American funds are hovering in the background. It’s a problem with no fans: I am still willing to step aside. A meeting is set for the 19th at Filadelfia: The Maratona will continue to protest. Zapata’s renewal made official
Referee inquest, more troubles for Inter
Alleged interference: The last game against Toro is also on the prosecutor’s mind
‘Milan, here to dominate. Modric, second star …’
Amorim’s ambitions
The new coach: ‘I have different ideas to Allegri, we will display beautiful football’
Coventry City have reportedly asked Milan for the availability of Fikayo Tomori, but the defender has rejected the idea of a reunion with Frank Lampard.
The 28-year-old is on the market this summer, as he is not part of new coach Ruben Amorim’s plans, and his contract is set to expire in June 2027.
Tomori set for Milan exit
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
That makes a sale inevitable this summer, trying to recoup some of the €36m spent to sign him from Chelsea in 2021.
The asking price has been set at around €15-20m for the defender, a figure that Coventry City would be able to cover following their promotion to the Premier League.
However, Sportmediaset in Italy insist that Tomori has already ruled out the possibility of joining Coventry, even if it would mean a reunion with his Lampard, who he had worked with at Chelsea.
He considers this too big a step down from San Siro, and is prepared to wait for more appetising offers to come along.
Ruben Amorim explains why he is ‘sorry’ for Manchester United fans, warns he is ‘nothing like’ Jose Mourinho, and refuses to be drawn into an attack on Milan predecessor Max Allegri.
The Portuguese coach was fired at Old Trafford in January, but is back in business on the bench of Serie A side Milan.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – AUGUST 17: Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United applauds the fans following the Premier League match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford on August 17, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
As it is the first experience since his ill-fated spell at Manchester United, the 41-year-old was asked what he had learned from that tenure and which lessons he would take with him at this next job.
Amorim on Manchester United lessons
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – AUGUST 09: Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United acknowledges the fans after the pre-season friendly match between Manchester United and ACF Fiorentina at Old Trafford on August 09, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
“It’s hard to explain the mistakes, because I would have to explain the context of the last adventure, and I am a Milan coach, so I talk about Milan. All I can say is that I learned a lot, and I did make some mistakes,” said Amorim.
“I didn’t have the opportunity, and I’m sorry for that, to say something to the Manchester United fans. I was very proud to be their coach for a year, but this is a different history. There are a lot of things I could’ve done better in that experience, but sometimes like is like that, you need to learn and find the right spot to reach a different level. That is my thinking here.
“Everyone learns from experiences, there are some things you can never change, but I think I will be a better coach for it. That’s all.”
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 04: Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United, reacts during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Sunderland at Old Trafford on October 04, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Amorim is taking over from Allegri, who was fired the day after failing to secure a Champions League spot for Milan last season.
So when asked about that, the new man knew he had to tread very carefully.
“I can say the way I want to play. I know where you want to go, but I have huge respect for Mister Allegri, none more than me, he’s so experienced. I will not talk about the past, the way Milan played. I can say the way I want us to play,” replied Amorim.
“We want the ball, we want to dominate the opponent. I know that this team can defend really well, we have different ideas and that is normal, every coach has different ideas. I can change when I see my players up close, they can give me ideas, but I can talk about the principles.
“The principles are that we want to recover the ball really fast, we want to entertain the fans, we want to be exciting to watch. When you want to win the game, when you have that responsibility coaching big teams, you cannot run away from the fact that you need to win, that a draw is like losing, and that’s what we are going to do, try to score goals and be dominant.”
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 21: Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica, looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between Juventus and SL Benfica at Juventus Stadium on January 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
There were other Portuguese coaches at Milan in recent years, Paulo Fonseca and Sergio Conceicao, but both struggled to get their ideas across.
The most successful from this school was Mourinho, who won the Treble at Inter in 2010, so is Amorim going to follow the Special One’s approach to communication?
“No, I’m completely different to Jose Mourinho. I’m a different person, I learn a lot from him of course, but as a coach you have to follow your personality, you cannot copy anyone else. I have a different style of playing, I hope to win like he won in Italy, that’s the only thing I want to be the same!
“I have a lot of respect for Mourinho, I can call him a friend, but I am completely different. Don’t expect that from me. You know guys that sometimes I’m upset with a loss and say a lot of things I shouldn’t say.
“I learn with all the mistakes that I made in Manchester. I learned a lot. I will try to improve on the small details, to help my players to be better, and also I expect to win more games than draw. I will not talk about losing games, because that communication is going to be easy if we’re winning games.”
Ruben Amorim assures ‘perfect’ Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric will be key players in his Milan squad, but his description of the USMNT player’s role suggests Rafael Leao is on the way out.
Ruben Amorim appointed Milan head coach (Source: acmilan.com)
Although he tried not to discuss individual players, insisting that he would prefer to speak about the team as a whole, he was drawn on two who are reconsidering their futures after the World Cup.
Pulisic and Modric key for Amorim’s Milan
GENOA, ITALY – MAY 17: Christian Pulisic of Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and AC Milan at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on May 17, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
“Pulisic is a really talented player, of course he had an injury again in the World Cup that we need to assess,” said Amorim.
“He is perfect for the way I think about football, especially here in Italy where sometimes the teams defend so well there is less space between the lines, he is a player who can make the difference in that kind of space.”
When it came to describing where Pulisic could play in his team, Amorim’s small laugh and shrug suggested he knew full well what message this comment would send.
“I have a clear idea of where I want him to play, especially with the right foot on the left side, is the perfect position for him, he can play the other side also, inside too and not on the line.”
MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 17: Rafael Leao of AC Milan celebrates with his team-mate Christian Pulisic after scoring the opening goal during the Coppa Italia match between AC Milan and SSC Bari at Stadio San Siro on August 17, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Pulisic has almost exclusively played on the right for Milan because the left flank is taken up by Rafael Leao, so might no longer be sacrificed to make room for the Portugal international.
“I know the strengths of Pulisic, I believe in him, he will be supported in our clubs, I know he had some criticism after the World Cup elimination, but I am here to say we believe a lot in him, have a clear plan to use all the qualities that he has, so I can say to you that Pulisic is really important for us,” added Amorim.
Serie A 25/26 – Top Transfers – Manuel Akanji, Luka Modric & Donyell Malen – GettyImages
Another player who is still trying to decide his Milan future is Modric, who has not ruled out retirement or a move to MLS after the World Cup elimination for Croatia.
“Modric is a player we want to keep for his experience. I spoke with him two times, if he needs, I will come and get the guy,” confessed Amorim.
“He played really well, he is a key point for us, especially at the beginning to have more possession. I’m not saying he will play every game, but we really want to count with Modric for next season.
“I know the board spoke with Modric, I spoke with Modric, so I hope to have Modric in some days with us. I will give him some days to rest.”
Ruben Amorim has given an explanation as to how Milan will be operating in the transfer window under their new senior management team and has explained why the club decided to invest a record fee on new centre-forward Goncalo Ramos.
Amorim is the new head coach of Milan, appointed as the successor to Massimiliano Allegri, who was dismissed along with sporting director Igli Tare, technical director Geoffrey Moncada and CEO Giorgio Furlani back in May.
The Rossoneri have since restructured their senior management team, which now features Massimo Calvelli, Hendrik Almstadt and Bobby Gardiner in the roles of CEO, director of player trading and director of football intelligence respectively.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – AUGUST 17: Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United applauds the fans following the Premier League match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford on August 17, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Amorim explains why Milan wanted Ramos and how club will be operating in the transfer window
While fielding questions from the media during his introductory press conference, Amorim was asked if new centre-forward Ramos has been brought in to play alongside Rafael Leao in attack.
Amorim refused to comment on Leao’s future, but did give an explanation as to why Milan chose Ramos and how the club will be making their decisions on new signings in the future.
“I don’t want to talk about individual players, but I can talk about Goncalo Ramos because he’s a new player, because we brought him into the team with a lot of money and I can explain why we chose him,” Amorim began.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 04: Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United, reacts during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Sunderland at Old Trafford on October 04, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
“We did that job as a team. I am the person who gives the profile to the team, and they find the best players available in that position. That will be the type of work we are going to do here. It is not the manager who chooses the name, I choose the profile and then follow the scouting.
“We believe a lot in Goncalo Ramos, in the last (World Cup) game against Croatia, he scored against a low block with a lot of defenders on top of him. If you see games in Italy, sometimes it is like that, the teams defend really well, and he’s able to score against low blocks, he’s able to score in transitions.
“One of the aspects that is really important to me with Goncalo Ramos is that if you see him playing five minutes or from the start, it’s the same player. With Goncalo Ramos, it is all about the team, then if we want to press high, we need a striker who can do that work. You see him play five minutes, you know he will follow the defenders everywhere.
“It is more than a player, it is a message to show that we want a guy that believes in the team, and I am really happy that it was really fast. That was a sign also that there is belief in what I am trying to do here.”
And on Leao, Amorim added: “Rafael Leao played really well in the World Cup, he is our player, I am really happy with our team, so I am a happy coach.”
Milan owner Gerry Cardinale has introduced new head coach Ruben Amorim in front of the press, says that he ‘couldn’t be more thrilled’ to be working with the former Manchester United and Sporting CP tactician and that the Rossoneri had to cram six months’ worth of meetings into just a few weeks in order to be ready for the start of the 2026-27 season.
It has been a busy off-season for Milan, who parted company with their entire senior management team the day after the 2025-26 season ended. Head coach Massimiliano Allegri, sporting director Igli Tare, technical director Geoffrey Moncada and CEO Giorgio Furlani were all let go in one fell swoop, all confirmed in one singular club statement.
Since then, Milan have agreed a deal for Amorim to take over as head coach. He will be supported by Massimo Calvelli, Hendrik Almstadt and Bobby Gardiner in a newly-restructured senior management team.
RUBEN AMORIM – AUGUST 09: Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United acknowledges the fans after the pre-season friendly match between Manchester United and ACF Fiorentina at Old Trafford on August 09, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
Amorim was spotted arriving at Milan’s training ground on Tuesday, along with owner Cardinale, and the two sat down in front of the media for the introductory press conference on Wednesday.
Cardinale introduces Amorim as Milan embark on a new chapter
“When I set everything in motion that you’ve seen over the last month or so, the day after our season ended, was towards re-looking at our football organisation,” began Cardinale.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 03: Gerry Cardinale of AC Milan looks on before the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on September 03, 2022 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“For the first time in my ownership, my jumping in to be a much more hands-on owner, the first thing I decided to do was to really look at the coaching position.
“When I look at football organisations, the relationship between coach, ownership and management is absolutely critical. In normal circumstances, you go for head of football, sporting director, and then a coach.
“We packed six months’ worth of meetings into a month. Very important to this whole process, we fundamentally want to bring AC Milan back to its football heritage. We’re gonna play to win. We’re not going to play not to lose, but play to win.
“That means we want a football style that fits that objective. And that is a high press, high possession, attacking style of football. It’ll be an exciting style of football, fun to watch, and high scoring.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – AUGUST 17: Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United applauds the fans following the Premier League match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford on August 17, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
“I also want to create a culture here. I’ve been hands off in my ownership, so a wake up call for everybody is those days are over. I’m here, I’m now, I’m responsible, but I have a great team around me. That team worked with me very closely over the last month and a half to get to the point where we have Ruben as the foundation stone for our football organisation.
“Our team has depth, just so we’re all clear. I’ve taken one of my best guys, Massimo Calvelli, and moved him into AC Milan as the CEO. We’re putting our money where our mouth is, we’re letting our actions speak for themselves, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to start this with you and Ruben.”
The 2026 World Cup round of 16 is now complete, and heading into the quarter-finals, Milan’s five remaining players mean that they are the best represented Serie A side at the tournament in North America.
France, Morocco, Spain, Belgium, England, Norway, Argentina and Switzerland are the eight sides that will compete in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals, which will kick off on Thursday evening: France vs. Morocco the first game on the schedule.
In terms of Serie A representation, Milan have provided the most quarter-finalists of any Italian team with France duo Adrien Rabiot and Mike Maignan, Belgian pair Koni De Winter and Alexis Saelemaekers and Switzerland midfielder Ardon Jashari.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Mike Maignan of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Inter are the second-most represented Serie A side in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals with three representatives in the form of France’s Marcus Thuram, Argentina’s Lautaro Martinez and Switzerland’s Manuel Akanji.
Roma, Napoli and Bologna each have two representatives: The Giallorossi with Neil El-Aynaoui (Morocco) and Manu Kone (France), the Partenopei with Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku of Belgium and The Rossoblu with Norway’s Torbjorn Heggem and Switzerland’s Remo Freuler.
Atalanta, Como, Genoa, Torino, Sassuolo, Cremonese and Pisa all have one player each left at the 2026 World Cup.
Which Serie A players are left at the 2026 World Cup?
Milan: Adrien Rabiot (France), Mike Maignan (France), Koni De Winter (Belgium), Alexis Saelemaekers (Belgium), Ardon Jashari (Switzerland).
Inter: Marcus Thuram (France), Lautaro Martinez (Argentina), Manuel Akanji (Switzerland).
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 05: Lautaro Martinez of Inter celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 05, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Roma: Manu Kone (France), Neil El-Aynaoui (Morocco).
Napoli: Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium), Romelu Lukaku (Belgium).
COMO, ITALY – APRIL 12: Nico Paz of Como 1907 celebrates after scoring their team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
21 Serie A and Serie B representatives are left standing as the 2026 World Cup moves into the quarter-final stages following the final two round of 16 ties on Tuesday night.
With no Italy at the tournament in North America, Belgium and Norway might be the two nations for the Serie A neutral to support heading into the quarter-finals. They have the most ‘Italian’ representatives in their squads with five players apiece.
France and Switzerland are also well represented by Serie A and Serie B talents, with four players in each of their squads.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates his side’s first goal, an own goal by Adam Marusic of Lazio (not pictured), during the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
Argentina have two Serie A stars in their ranks with Lautaro Martinez and Nico Paz, while Morocco’s sole ‘Italian’ representative is Roma’s Neil El-Aynaoui. Spain and England are without Serie A representation.
But we want to know who you will be rooting for heading into the final eight at the 2026 World Cup. Let us know in the comments below.
Which Serie A players are left at the 2026 World Cup?
France: Manu Kone (Roma), Marcus Thuram (Inter), Adrien Rabiot (Milan), Mike Maignan (Milan).
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Mike Maignan of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Morocco: Neil El-Aynaoui (Roma).
Spain: None.
Belgium: Kevin De Bruyne (Napoli), Romelu Lukaku (Napoli), Koni De Winter (Milan), Charles De Ketelaere (Atalanta), Alexis Saelemaekers (Milan).
Norway: Morten Thorsby (Cremonese), Leo Ostigard (Genoa), Marcus Holmgren Pedersen (Torino), Torbjorn Heggem (Bologna), Kristian Thorstvedt (Sassuolo).
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after the team’s victory in the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
Switzerland: Manuel Akanji (Inter), Remo Freuler (Bologna), Ardon Jashari (Milan), Michel Aebischer (Pisa).
Milan have already committed over €100m in funds on the signings of two players at the start of the summer transfer window, but Wednesday’s reports claim that the Rossoneri will not stop there and that they are already plotting their next steps on the market.
Milan want at least three more signings after committing over €100m on Gila and Ramos
This comes after a club-record agreement for Portugal international Goncalo Ramos, who has joined the Rossoneri in a deal believed to be worth over €80m with all bonuses and add-ons included, which has already taken Milan’s summer spending to around €110m.
Ramos’s arrival has already been confirmed and he has put pen to paper on a five-year deal running until the summer of 2031. It is expected that Gila will do the same with wages of around €5m per season.
It is expected that Milan will part company with some of their current first-team stars this window, Rafael Leao among them, but according to Wednesday’s reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport claim that the Rossoneri are already thinking about potential new attacking midfielders to bring in.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 24: Rafael Leao of AC Milan looks on from the substitutes bench prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Cagliari Calcio at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 24, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Wednesday’s report claims that Genk’s Konstantinos Karetsas is the current favourite, but it will take another considerable investment to bring the teenage Greece international to San Siro.
That is because Genk value the youngster at €40m and Borussia Dortmund are also said to be interested.
Among the alternative options to have been mentioned by La Gazzetta dello Sport are Kerim Alajbegovic and Can Uzun.
CARDIFF, WALES – MARCH 26: Kerim Alajbegovic of Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrates after winning in the penalty shoot out in the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-off match between Wales and Bosnia and Herzegovina at Cardiff City Stadium on March 26, 2026 in Cardiff, Wales. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Milan are also reportedly interested in signing another left-sided full-back and potentially another centre-back this summer.
Christian Pulisic had a disappointing end to his home World Cup, but Milan are not overly concerned about the attacker’s physical condition after being taken off with an injury during his nation’s round of 16 loss against Belgium.
Milan not expecting a ‘serious’ Pulisic injury
Pulisic was visibly distressed when he was taken off the field with an injury while his teammates lost 4-1 to Belgium in a round of 16 tie at the 2026 World Cup. There had been concerns surrounding the American’s fitness ever since the USA’s opening game at the tournament, when he was forced off at half-time with a calf issue.
After being forced off again against Belgium, Pulisic is expected to report for medical examinations within the next few days, before he jets off on his summer holidays.
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JUNE 19: Christian Pulisic #10 of the United States arrives at the stadium before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match between USA and Australia at Seattle Stadium on June 19, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
According to the latest updates from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan are not particularly concerned and are not preparing for a ‘serious’ injury.
Milan doctors are in contact with ‘Captain America’, and as things stand, they expect that he will be able to join in with pre-season training as normal when he returns from his time off.
Wednesday’s reports claim that Milan and Azzurri legend Paolo Maldini is closing in on a decision to return to the Italy national team set-up in the role as technical director.
Maldini close to giving his ‘yes’ to Italy
Newly-appointed FIGC President Giovanni Malago is looking to rebuild the management of the Italy national team following the departures of Gennaro Gattuso and Gianluigi Buffon after the failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup earlier this year.
Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini remain the frontrunners for the role of head coach, but reports over the last few weeks have made it clear that Malago wishes to appoint a new technical director before making a final decision on the next CT.
Maldini has been touted as Malago’s favourite for the position of technical director, but the Milan legend has not yet given his go-ahead.
EMPOLI, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Paolo Maldini of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Empoli FC and AC MIlan at Stadio Carlo Castellani on October 1, 2022 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
However, according to Wednesday’s updates from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Maldini is now closing in on giving his approval to joining the Italy set-up. The FIGC are reportedly optimistic, while Malago feels that he will have a final decision by the end of the week, if not by the end of the weekend.
Maldini, meanwhile, is said to be excited by the prospect of having near-full control over the Italy national team and the fact that he will be able to have a major impact on the development of the nation’s youth talents.
It’s been another busy day for Italian football with Juventus confirming Frederic Massara as their Chief Football Officer, as well as a new role within the club for Giorgio Chiellini.
Another big news comes from Milan, where the Rossoneri met Mario Gila’s agent and then secured a deal with Lazio after agreeing to personal terms with the Spanish defender in recent weeks.
BERGAMO, ITALY – APRIL 22: Mario Gila of SS Lazio kicks the ball during the Coppa Italia semi-final match between Atalanta BC and SS Lazio at New Balance Arena on April 22, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Elsewhere in Serie A, Inter are expected to send an improved offer for Liverpool’s Curtis Jones, while Nicolò Zaniolo has reached an agreement to extend his Udinese contract. Get today’s most relevant transfer updates in the video.
Multiple sources in Italy are reporting that Milan have a full agreement in place to sign centre-back Mario Gila from Lazio and that his former club Real Madrid will be entitled to a 50% cut of the fee.
Done deal: Gila set to join Milan from Lazio in €30m package
Gila looks all set to become Milan’s second signing of the summer transfer window after their club-record deal for Goncalo Ramos, as Sky Sport Italia, Fabrizio Romano and various others are reporting that an agreement has been reached to sign the defender from Lazio.
Tuesday’s reports indicate that an agreement has been struck over a fee in the region of €30m with bonuses included. €15m of that is expected to go to Madrid, where Gila had broken through before joining Lazio in 2022. He cost the Biancocelesti a reported fee of €6m four summers ago.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 12: Mario Gila during SS Lazio’s training session before the SS Lazio and FC Internazionale match in the Coppa Italia final at the Formello Sport Centre on May 12, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Milan had originally seen an offer of €25m plus €2m in bonuses turned down by Lazio according to the latest updates from Gianluca Di Marzio. The agreement was reportedly found on the basis of a fixed fee of around €27m-€28m plus additional bonuses to take the deal up to the €30m mark.
The 25-year-old is expected to sign a five-year contract in San Siro with wages reported to be worth around €4m-€5m per season. He had recently entered the final year of his contract with Lazio.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that England international John Stones has been offered to three of Italy’s biggest clubs in Juventus, Inter and Milan, but all three have concerns over the 32-year-old’s wages and injury record.
Stones offered to all of Serie A’s biggest clubs, no concrete offers yett
Stones is available on a free transfer after leaving Manchester City at the end of his contract on June 30. He spent 10 seasons playing under Pep Guardiola, and was part of the side that won six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, three EFL Cups and the 2022-23 Champions League during that period.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MAY 25: John Stones of Manchester City brings out the 2018/2019 Premier League trophy during the After Party Celebration to mark the achievements of Manchester City men’s, women’s and academy teams during the 25/26 season at The Co-op Live Arena on May 25, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)
Various reports over the last few weeks have linked the former Manchester City and Everton centre-back with a move to Serie A: Juventus and Inter mentioned as strong possibilities.
Speaking in a recent video on his YouTube channel, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Stones “has been offered to all of the biggest Italian teams: He’s on the market and has left City for nothing.
“He has big economic demands: He was offered to Inter last March, but that has not particularly heated up. He has been proposed to Inter and Juventus again in recent days.”
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JUNE 23: John Stones of England walks out the tunnel to inspect the pitch before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match between England and Ghana at Boston Stadium on June 23, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Romano went on to explain that all of the biggest Italian sides have slight concerns over Stones’s medical record: The Englishman’s most active season came during his first year with City in 2016-17 when he made 27 appearances in the Premier League, but has only averaged 14.6 league appearances over the last five seasons.
Ruben Amorim has arrived at Milan’s training centre and has posed for a series of photos alongside owner Gerry Cardinale as the Portuguese begins his new chapter as the head coach of the Rossoneri.
Amorim was appointed the new head coach of Milan on an initial two-year contract in mid-June. He replaces Massimiliano Allegri, who was dismissed alongside sporting director Igli Tare, technical director Geoffrey Moncada and CEO Giorgio Furlani the day after the 2025-26 season ended.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – AUGUST 09: Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United acknowledges the fans after the pre-season friendly match between Manchester United and ACF Fiorentina at Old Trafford on August 09, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
Amorim arrived in Italy on Monday and is spending his first afternoon at Milanello, the club’s training base, on Tuesday.
He was spotted arriving at the training ground alongside Cardinale on Tuesday afternoon. The pair posed for a series of photos in front of the press outside the entrance of the facility before heading inside to begin work for the 2026-27 season.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – JANUARY 05: Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United, looks on prior to kick-off ahead of the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Manchester United FC at Anfield on January 05, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
“It’s a big challenge. After the last one I’d promised myself to choose a smaller challenge, but I’m here and it’s even bigger. I’m really proud to be here, I just want to work with my players and my staff, and I’m truly happy to be here. In Milan to win? Of course. If you want to be Milan’s coach, you have to play for that.”
Watch: Amorim arrives to begin work as head coach of Milan
Amorim è a Milanello: ad accoglierlo è Gerry Cardinale, proprietario del @acmilan. Primi sorrisi e stretta di mano davanti alle telecamere @SkySportpic.twitter.com/Sxg8sJVUV0
Former Milan and Roma director Frederic Massara is set to be appointed Juventus’ new Head of Football, while François Modesto is expected to leave, according to reports in Italy.
Massara set for Juventus appointment after Roma exit
The most prominent Italian media report that the Bianconeri are set to welcome Massara, a former sporting director at Milan and Roma, as their new Head of Football.
Sky Sport and Fabrizio Romano claim that talks between the two parties are at an advanced stage, while Gazzetta insists that the deal is practically done, so Massara is expected to be confirmed soon as a new member of the Juventus management.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 04:Frederic Massara of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and AC MIlan at Stadio Artemio Franchi on March 04, 2023 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 03: Paolo Maldini and Frederic Massara of AC Milan look on before the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on September 03, 2022 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Massara’s move will lead to Modesto’s exit, while, according to Gazzetta, Giorgio Chiellini and Marco Ottolini will remain at the Allianz Stadium serving as Director of Football Strategy and sporting director, respectively.
Massara was Milan’s sporting director during the Rossoneri’s 2021-22 title-winning campaign and held the same role at Roma last season, but left the club in June, largely due to disagreements with coach Gian Piero Gasperini.
Inter Milan have renewed their interest in Liverpool’s Curtis Jones as they work on strengthening their midfield section for 2026-27, according to Fabrizio Romano. The 25-year-old is open to the move and the two clubs are in contact, but their is still a significant gap in valuation as Liverpool consider the €20million proposed by Inter […]
Inter Milan have renewed their interest in Liverpool’s Curtis Jones as they work on strengthening their midfield section for 2026-27, according to Fabrizio Romano. The 25-year-old is open to the move and the two clubs are in contact, but their is still a significant gap in valuation as Liverpool consider the €20million proposed by Inter […]
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, AC Milan winger Rafael Leao might be available this summer for a cut-price fee of £43million, and such a deal would be of interest for Manchester United. The Portugal international played well for Milan in the first half of the season, but fitness issues largely contributed to what has been […]
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