Inter captain Lautaro Martinez came off the bench to give Argentina a 2-1 comeback victory over England, sending them into the World Cup Final against Spain.

There were no Serie A players in the starting line-ups, but one who was born in Italy, as Giuliano Simeone came into the world when his father Diego was playing for Lazio.

Inter captain Lautaro Martinez, Como’s Nico Paz and Juventus-owned Nico Gonzalez were on the bench for the reigning champions. England made several changes, starting Inter-linked Djed Spence and Aston Villa wide man Morgan Rogers.

Marco Di Bello was the VAR, with Maurizio Mariani as the fourth official representing Italy.

It was, as expected, a scrappy affair with numerous fouls and arguments from the opening whistle. The first real chance saw John Stones nod wide from a free kick to the back post, while Enzo Fernandez saw his scorcher flash inches off target.

The first genuine save was at the dawn of the second half with Jordan Pickford parrying the Julian Alvarez effort low at the near post.

However, England opened the scoring when a low Morgan Rogers cross from the right found Anthony Gordon ready to tap in at the far stick.

ENGLAND HAVE THE OPENER!

Anthony Gordon puts the Three Lions ahead in the World Cup semi-final! pic.twitter.com/5fBlRcf1oI

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

Argentina immediately threatened an equaliser with Alvarez, only to be denied by a stunning tackle from Inter-linked full-back Djed Spence, formerly of Genoa, and Enzo Fernandez then blasted over.

Nico Gonzalez of Juventus came off the bench and immediately knocked a dangerous ball back to be cleared by Stones, then Pickford got down for a great save on his glancing header.

Argentina poured forward and were unlucky to see an Alexis Mac Allister free header smack against the upright on Rodrigo De Paul’s cross.

Lautaro Martinez was finally introduced for the final 10 minutes, and a long-range Enzo Fernandez screamer was fingertipped over the bar.

Argentina’s siege finally paid off with a scorcher from Enzo Fernandez on the resulting short corner and Lionel Messi assist, smashing in from well outside the area.

“Enzo Fernandez has simply been setting his sights!”

A rocket of a strike from the midfielder draws Argentina level. pic.twitter.com/f5kUPkaP0a

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

The momentum had shifted too much with England’s defensive attitude, and it cost them in added time, because after another Mac Allister effort came off the woodwork, Messi floated in the cross for Lautaro Martinez’s header. It was the Serie A Capocannoniere’s third goal of the 2026 World Cup.

Argentina are ahead!

A relentless spell of pressure sees Alexis Mac Allister hit the post before ANOTHER Lionel Messi assist sets up Lautaro Martinez to make it 2-1. pic.twitter.com/kVoNouFgKZ

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

England 1-2 Argentina

Gordon 55 (E), Enzo Fernandez 86 (A), Lautaro Martinez 92 (A)

15-07-2026 20:00

Semi-final

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

England

Argentina

1 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

Elliot Anderson		37'
		42'		Lautaro Martínez

2nd half

		51'		Cristian Romero
Anthony Gordon (Assist: Morgan Rogers)		55'
		86'		Enzo Fernández (Assist: Lionel Messi)
		90+2'		Lautaro Martínez (Assist: Lionel Messi)
		90+4'		Rodrigo de Paul

Match statistic

36

Possession %

64

5

Total shots

15

2

Shots on target

5

1

Shots off target

7

2

Blocked shots

3

1

Corners

6

1

Offsides

3

11

Fouls

15

England

Argentina

Starting lineups

1

Jordan Pickford

Goalkeeper

25

Djed Spence

Defender

90'

5

John Stones

Defender

90'

6

Marc Guehi

Defender

24

Reece James

Defender

82'

4

Declan Rice

Midfielder

82'

8

Elliot Anderson

Midfielder

10

Jude Bellingham

Midfielder

18

Anthony Gordon

Attacker

72'

9

Harry Kane

Attacker

17

Morgan Rogers

Attacker

23

Emiliano Martínez

Goalkeeper

13

Cristian Romero

Defender

6

Lisandro Martínez

Defender

72'

26

Nahuel Molina

Defender

72'

3

Nicolás Tagliafico

Defender

81'

20

Alexis Mac Allister

Midfielder

24

Enzo Fernández

Midfielder

5

Leandro Paredes

Midfielder

64'

17

Giuliano Simeone

Attacker

72'

9

Julián Álvarez

Attacker

10

Lionel Messi

Attacker

Substitutes

14

Jordan Henderson

Midfielder

20

Noni Madueke

Attacker

7

Bukayo Saka

Attacker

13

Dean Henderson

Goalkeeper

23

James Trafford

Goalkeeper

19

Ollie Watkins

Attacker

12

Trevoh Chalobah

Defender

16

Kobbie Mainoo

Midfielder

21

Eberechi Eze

Attacker

2

Ezri Konsa

Defender

72'

15

Dan Burn

Defender

82'

3

Nico O’Reilly

Defender

82'

11

Marcus Rashford

Attacker

90'

22

Ivan Toney

Attacker

90'

1

Juan Musso

Goalkeeper

11

Giovani Lo Celso

Midfielder

14

Exequiel Palacios

Midfielder

12

Gerónimo Rulli

Goalkeeper

2

Marcos Senesi

Defender

16

Thiago Almada

Midfielder

25

Facundo Medina

Defender

18

Nico Paz

Midfielder

8

Valentín Barco

Defender

21

José Manuel López

Attacker

15

Nico González

Attacker

64'

19

Nicolás Otamendi

Defender

72'

7

Rodrigo de Paul

Midfielder

72'

4

Gonzalo Montiel

Defender

72'

22

Lautaro Martínez

Attacker

81'

Atalanta are edging closer to an agreement for Kerim Alajbegovic, with reports of a new offer worth €25m plus add-ons to Bayer Leverkusen and the player asking Sead Kolasinac for advice.

It has been said by several sources over the last few days that La Dea are making a strong bid to sign the Bosnia and Herzegovina talent.

Now Sky Sport Italia and Sport Mediaset note that a new proposal has come in worth €25m plus bonuses, which is edging close to the €30m asking price.

Atalanta want Alajbegovic

Alajbegovic won’t turn 19 until September, but has already made a real name for himself both playing for Bosnia and Herzegovina, and at club level.

The attacking winger spent last season on loan at RB Salzburg, where he scored 13 goals and provided four assists in 44 competitive appearances.

Another sign of progress in the negotiations is the suggestion he has already spoken to Bosnia teammate Kolasinac to ask about life in Serie A, and specifically living in Bergamo.

Kolasinac has been at the club since the summer of 2023 and was part of the Atalanta squad that won the Europa League in 2024.

Napoli agreed personal terms with Exequiel Zeballos and reports are growing that they made the first formal offer to Boca Juniors worth just under €10m.

Multiple sources had already noted that the club had swooped for the player, who is primarily wide right of a trident attack, but can also go on the left or in a centre-forward role.

His contract with Boca Juniors only runs to December 31 this year, so although there is a release clause in his contract at €14.5m, this won’t be the asking price in the circumstances.

Zeballos has heart set on Napoli

Transfer pundit Fabrizio Romano claims that Napoli have finally made the first offer to Boca Juniors and it is worth $10m (just under €10m), which would fit with the report from Sportitalia expert Alfredo Pedullà on July 9.

It is no secret that Zeballos has his heart set on Napoli, with TyC Sports reporting that he had agreed personal terms all the way back in May.

The 24-year-old is determined to play at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona and follow in the footsteps of the Argentina legend.

This is why he turned down a lucrative contract extension to stay at Boca Juniors.

Como President Mirwan Suwarso has confirmed the report he called Inter to offer a pact of non-aggression over Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah. ‘This is a win-win relationship.’

The two Serie A teams were reportedly about to spark a bidding war for the England international, with an asking price of €35m from Stamford Bridge.

Just as it looked as if they were going to go head-to-head, La Gazzetta dello Sport claimed that Suwarso had called Inter to propose a pact, where they would back out to ensure they weren’t both fleeced.

To the general astonishment of the Business of Sport podcast crew, the Como President confirmed all of that was entirely accurate.

Como take modern approach to transfer market

“There was a story in the media that we were in competition with another Italian team for a British player, they were saying we might want to buy him,” Suwarso told Business of Sport.

“So you know what, why don’t I just call the President of the other club and say, do you want him? If you want him, you go for it, we’ll back out. But if you buy him, then give me one of yours.

“He said, thanks for calling, I appreciate this, I’ll let you know. So we said these are the other targets we’re going after, we’re happy to share with you.

“So for me this is a win-win relationship with other clubs, we are open, it helps all of us to grow. I have a lunch next week with another chairman of another club, who can start managing their clothing brand together.”

There are some Serie A sides who produce their own kits and lifestyle products, specifically Napoli and Venezia, so it is likely one of these is his lunch dates.

Como do things very differently to other clubs, and part of that is because they were so small before the Indonesian decided to take them from Serie C to the Champions League.

“We spent a quite significant amount, but we do believe that we can break even and start no longer requiring injections from the owners at the end of next season,” said Suwarso.

“I met with UEFA, there’s no precedent of where we are, because UEFA look at the last few years. In comparison with Juventus and Aston Villa, the start-up level and growth level is different. Even they say they would have to evaluate how they look at Financial Fair Play.

“We want to become good members of the Association, so if you have to fine us, then fine us, that can be an objective we need to overcome. We don’t want to be treated differently.”

Suwarso confirmed purchased Como for €850,000 plus €150,000 in debt, but then poured money into the club, including the construction of a training ground that previously didn’t exist.

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.

“It’s a real thrill to be able to start my journey at Como,” Liberali told the club website.

“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

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.

It was widely reported that the Rossoneri had tried to talk him into returning to San Siro this season, where he would cost them just €3m rather than the full €6m release clause.

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.

Andrea Pirlo has emerged as the frontrunner to become Italy’s next head coach, but the prospect of appointing the former World Cup winner has already divided opinion across the country. Lorenzo Bettoni and Alasdair Mackenzie discuss in the latest episode of the Football Italia Summer Show.

Click here to subscribe to the official YouTube channel of Football Italia.

Next Italy coach: Yes or no to Pirlo?

While Pirlo’s reputation as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation is beyond question, his relatively limited experience in management has prompted a lively debate over whether he is the right man to lead the Azzurri into a new era.

With the Italian Football Federation facing a crucial decision, several other candidates have also been linked with the role.

Each brings a different profile, from proven tactical expertise to international experience, making the search for Italy’s next coach one of the most intriguing storylines in Italian football.

In the latest episode of our Summer Show on YouTube, Lorenzo Bettoni and Alasdair Mackenzie examine Pirlo’s coaching career, weighing up both the strengths and the concerns surrounding his candidacy.

They also assess the leading alternatives, discussing which coach would be the best fit for the national team and who offers Italy the strongest chance of returning to the top of international football.

Roma are actively working to sell Manu Koné for at least €60m, with reports in Italy claiming Manchester United are ahead of Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal for the France midfielder.

His asking price had already been a minimum of €50m before the World Cup, but has since surged thanks to his impressive performances, as confirmed by how badly he was missed in the semi-final against Spain when making way for Aurelien Tchaouameni.

Koné targeted by Premier League

There are some suggestions in England, most notably from Rio Ferdinand on his YouTube channel, that Manchester United have already agreed a deal worth €53m.

That is not the version given by the Corriere dello Sport, who insist that while Manchester United have been the most consistently interested and taken more steps, they are by no means the only club.

Others from the Premier League to have contacted Roma to ask for information are Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea, along with Atletico Madrid in LaLiga.

Above all, the price is not going to drop below €60m (approximately £51m) after those performances in the 2026 World Cup.

The 25-year-old is going to provide a hefty profit regardless, as he was purchased from Borussia Monchengladbach in the summer of 2024 for just €18m plus €2m in add-ons.

His World Cup is not over yet, as Koné and France will play in Saturday’s third-place final, but after that he can begin to work in earnest on the next step of his career.

Udinese defender Oumar Solet was linked with Inter and Juventus, but now there are reports Leeds United are coming in with an offer worth €25m.

The centre-back impressed last season in Friuli and is still considered hot property on the transfer market.

However, the Serie A sides showing firm interest like Inter and Juve are forced to deal with other priorities first, so let the negotiations slide rather than pay the €25m asking price.

Solet snapped up by Leeds United?

That could prove costly, because Il Messaggero Veneto newspaper via FCInterNews claim that Leeds United are making no such qualms, so are ready to swoop with the full fee.

It would be the second time in a few days that Leeds United have dived in to pick up a Serie A talent, as they already agreed a €40m deal with Sassuolo for Bosnia and Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic.

When Inter did come forward with proposals for Solet, they were believed to be worth €20m including add-ons, which is not enough to tempt Udinese into a sale.

It is a big profit for Udinese, who picked up the Frenchman as a free agent in January 2025 after he left RB Salzburg in a contract dispute in September 2024.

The Milan Public Prosecutor has announced the dismissal of the case against ex-referee designator Gianluca Rocchi, his deputy Andrea Gervasoni and Inter, who had come under scrutiny over alleged attempts to influence the appointment of referees.

An investigation into Rocchi, Gervasoni, and other referees regarding alleged sporting fraud has been dismissed by the Milan Public Prosecutor.

No player or coach from any Italian team was known to be under investigation, but Inter had been under scrutiny, with suspicions that some of Rocchi’s referee appointments were made to please the Nerazzurri and to avoid match officials they didn’t like.

As reported by Gazzetta, Inter simultaneously entered into the register of suspects, but the proceedings against the club were immediately dismissed.

The main allegation against Rocchi, however, was that he put external pressure to influence VAR decisions during some Serie A matches.

Rocchi voluntarily stepped down during the investigation and was first replaced by Dino Tommasi and then by Daniele Orsato.

In an official statement, quoted by Gazzetta, the Public Prosecutor’s Office said it had “requested that the Preliminary Investigations Judge dismiss the criminal proceedings concerning the offence under Articles 81 (continued offence) and 110 of the Italian Criminal Code, and Article 1, paragraph 1, of Law No. 401/1989, in relation to the alleged attempts to influence the selection or exclusion of match officials.”

With the same statement, the Milan Prosecutor’s Office said it had transferred the case file to the Public Prosecutor’s Office in Monza regarding allegations relating to incidents that occurred in the VAR operations room.

Copies of the case file were also sent to both the Federal Prosecutor’s Office of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) and the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI).

The investigation did not identify any structured scheme designed to influence the referee appointments.

The criminal investigation has been closed, but the review of the evidence relating to alleged influence on VAR will continue with the Monza Prosecutor’s Office examining the conduct of Luigi Nasca and Stefano Di Vuono, while Daniele Paterna’s position will continue to be examined in Milan.

The Federal Prosecutor’s Office has received the case files to determine whether the facts may constitute violations of sporting regulations, although that appears unlikely given that no sporting investigation had previously been opened.

Reports in Italy claim that Tottenham defender Djed Spence would be more expensive than Anan Khalaili for Inter, but the Nerazzurri are still willing to open talks with Spurs.

Inter are looking for a replacement for Denzel Dumfries, who has joined Real Madrid after the Merengues agreed to match his €20m release clause.

Inter ready to enter talks with Tottenham for Spence

Inter’s primary target, Marco Palestra, joined Chelsea instead, while Khalaili failed his medical tests this week, leaving the Serie A title holders still in need of a new right wing-back.

Gazzetta, Sky Sport Italia and Corriere dello Sport claim that Spence is quickly becoming Inter’s favourite target, although the Nerazzurri are still assessing and have a long shortlist, which includes Strasbourg’s Guela Doué, among others.

These sources claim that Spence would be more expensive than €25m-30m, the fee that the Nerazzurri were ready to invest to sign Khalaili, who was ready to complete a permanent €25m deal plus €5m add-ons.

Despite that, according to Sky, the Nerazzurri are still determined to enter talks with Tottenham.

Informal contacts have already taken place and even involved Cristian Romero, but the Argentine centre-back would be even more expensive than Spence as Spurs have demanded €50m.

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.

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.

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.

Antonio Conte refuses to comment on speculation regarding his possible appointment as Italy coach, but praises two of his ex-strikers, Harry Kane and Lautaro Martinez, who will meet in the World Cup semifinal tonight.

Conte left Napoli in May after spending two seasons at the Stadio Maradona.

One of the most successful Italian coaches of the last decade, Conte has long been linked with the Italy job this summer, but, following Paolo Maldini’s appointment as technical director, Conte no longer seems one of the top options for the Azzurri.

Conte gave an interview to Gazzetta dello Sport while on holiday with his family. The pink paper said that Conte agreed to talk to their reporter as long as the conversation did not concern his future.

“Now, I’m happy like this,” he said.

Conte did talk about the World Cup, also focusing on two of his ex-strikers, Kane and Lautaro Martinez.

Conte: Kane is almost a No.10

The Bayern Munich and Inter stars will meet tonight in the World Cup semifinal. The winner will face Spain in the Final next Sunday.

“Harry [Kane] is a great No.9, but he’s almost a No.10 too,” Conte said.

“He understands the movements; he knows when to drop deep and play as a playmaker. He’s a fantastic player, with great quality and technique. It was unfair that he had never won anything, and at Bayern Munich, he’s getting the satisfaction he deserves. Who knows, maybe he can do the same with the national team. Kane is a leader in his own way. Perhaps not with words, but inside the game. His teammates look for him because they trust him, and he never lets them down.”

Conte coached Kane at Tottenham and had previously won the Serie A title at Inter, coaching Lautaro Martinez.

Conte said he was impressed with the Argentine’s “continuous growth, as well as charisma and personality.”

“There’s an Inter with Lautaro and an Inter without Lautaro. His presence shifts the balance,” continued the Italian tactician.

“Lautaro’s contribution to Argentina’s third goal against Egypt went somewhat unnoticed, but it was incredible. He carried the ball up the pitch, protected it, gave Enzo Fernandez enough time to arrive and delivered a perfect cross. You don’t expect that kind of play from a No.9.

“Lautaro, like Julian Alvarez, understood that he could still be important even if only for a few minutes. They accepted the situation by putting their egos aside and prioritising the team’s needs. Credit to both of them, and to Scaloni for convincing them.

Inevitably, however, the brightest Argentine star is once again Leo Messi.

“He’s gone beyond expectations, once more,” noted Conte.

“He has arrived in incredible shape, which once again proves his incredible professionalism and desire. Leo has the brainpower to always be in the right place because he predicts what will happen.”

At the end of the interview, the journalist still tried to know more about Conte’s potential return as Italy coach.

“Too many things have been said. It’s time for action, not for talk and politics,” the ex-Napoli, Juventus and Inter boss replied.

“We cannot miss three World Cups in a row. A feat has been accomplished, but in reverse.”

Spain have now gone 37 consecutive games unbeaten, equalling Italy’s record under Roberto Mancini, and will overtake the Azzurri if they win the World Cup.

Spain beat France 2-0 on Tuesday to become the first finalist of the 2026 World Cup.

Italy and Spain share an unbeaten record

La Roja will meet the winner of Argentina vs England in the Final next Sunday.

As Gazzetta highlights, Spain have now been unbeaten in the last 37 matches across all competitions, matching the record set by Mancini’s Italy between 2018 and 2021.

This means that Spain will beat Italy’s record if they win the World Cup.

Luis De La Fuente has selected no Serie A players in his Spain team for the 2026 World Cup.

They have scored 13 goals at the 2026 World Cup so far, conceding just once, from Atalanta star Charles De Ketelaere in a quarter-final clash against Belgium.

Spain have already broken one of Italy’s World Cup records this summer, with goalkeeper Unai Simón going unbeaten for more than 519 minutes and surpassing Walter Zenga’s mark, which had stood for 36 years.

Gazzetta dello Sport

One Azzurro leads to another

Maldini and Malagò want Buffon in Club Italia. Pirlo is increasingly favourite to become the new coach

Goodbye France

Spain into the final after 16 years

Blues irrecognizable: Mbappé’s flop. Oyarzabal’s penalty and Porro’s goal decide the game. England-Argentina tonight.

Modric, here we are: one-year renewal ready

Inter all over Spence: Tottenham ask for 35m

Conte: ‘Kane-Lautaro, I’ll explain to you, my hitmen.’

Corriere dello Sport

Nothing goes anymore: France darkness, Deschamps era over, Spain into the Final

Mbappé and Dembélé out: Messi, the obstacle is Kane

Allegri: ‘I’ll compensate you.’

From the Scudetto taken from Sarri in 2018 to the new objectives: ‘I’m here to give something back. The club thinks about the transfers. A company man? That’s a compliment. I won’t reply to Cardinale. I’m sorry for how it went.’

Inter between Doué and Spence

Milan call Mazraoui

Muha makes Juve rich

Rocchi’s case is to be dismissed

Tuttosport

Spanish coup: Surprise at the World Cup, no Final for the France of phenomenons

Spalletti dreams of Balogun

Muharemovic unlocks the Juventus market: not just Kolo and Pellegrino for the attack.

The Bosnian’s sale to Leeds is about to boost the Bianconeri’s finances with €20m following the agreement with Sassuolo. Monaco ask for at least €50m for the American; the coach hopes for a coup. Emery blocks Dibu to Villa: turn to Vicario. Kessié flirts.

Absurd: Toro fans banned from friendlies

Giuntoli against Marotta: ‘Palestra, we behaved well.’

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.

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.

Mikel Oyarzabal scores from the spot and Spain lead France! pic.twitter.com/pJManVOZf3

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) July 14, 2026

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 42^nd minute, then Mbappé just failed to get on the end of a fizzing Jules Koundé cross.

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

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) July 14, 2026

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.

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.

France 0-2 Spain

Oyarzabal pen 23 (S), Porro 58 (S)

14-07-2026 20:00

Semi-final

AT&T Stadium

France

Spain

0 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

Adrien Rabiot		9'
		22'		Mikel Oyarzabal
		31'		Marc Cucurella

2nd half

		58'		Pedro Porro (Assist: Dani Olmo)
Kylian Mbappé		86'

Match statistic

49

Possession %

51

10

Total shots

10

3

Shots on target

2

5

Shots off target

5

2

Blocked shots

3

7

Corners

1

4

Offsides

5

11

Fouls

12

France

Spain

Starting lineups

16

Mike Maignan

Goalkeeper

4

Dayot Upamecano

Defender

5

Jules Koundé

Defender

3

Lucas Digne

Defender

72'

17

William Saliba

Defender

30'

14

Adrien Rabiot

Midfielder

46'

8

Aurélien Tchouaméni

Midfielder

11

Michael Olise

Midfielder

72'

12

Bradley Barcola

Attacker

57'

10

Kylian Mbappé

Attacker

7

Ousmane Dembélé

Attacker

23

Unai Simón

Goalkeeper

14

Aymeric Laporte

Defender

24

Marc Cucurella

Defender

22

Pau Cubarsí

Defender

12

Pedro Porro

Defender

84'

15

Álex Baena

Midfielder

84'

8

Fabián Ruiz

Midfielder

78'

16

Rodri

Midfielder

10

Dani Olmo

Attacker

78'

19

Lamine Yamal

Attacker

21

Mikel Oyarzabal

Attacker

74'

Substitutes

19

Theo Hernández

Defender

13

N’Golo Kanté

Midfielder

15

Ibrahima Konaté

Defender

21

Lucas Hernández

Defender

2

Malo Gusto

Defender

9

Marcus Thuram

Attacker

18

Warren Zaïre-Emery

Midfielder

1

Brice Samba

Goalkeeper

22

Jean-Philippe Mateta

Attacker

23

Robin Risser

Goalkeeper

26

Maxence Lacroix

Defender

30'

6

Manu Koné

Midfielder

46'

20

Désiré Doué

Midfielder

57'

24

Rayan Cherki

Attacker

72'

25

Maghnes Akliouche

Midfielder

72'

4

Eric García

Defender

3

Alejandro Grimaldo

Defender

26

Borja Iglesias

Attacker

18

Martín Zubimendi

Midfielder

11

Yéremy Pino

Attacker

9

Gavi

Midfielder

1

David Raya

Goalkeeper

25

Víctor Muñoz

Attacker

13

Joan García

Goalkeeper

2

Marc Pubill

Defender

7

Ferran Torres

Attacker

74'

6

Mikel Merino

Midfielder

78'

20

Pedri

Midfielder

78'

5

Marcos Llorente

Midfielder

84'

17

Nico Williams

Attacker

84'

Tottenham Hotspur are demanding €50m to sell defender Cristian Romero, claim Sportitalia, so Inter are very unlikely to beat Barcelona to his signature.

It was reported this evening by Fabrizio Romano on his Italian language YouTube channel that Romero had been proposed to Inter by Spurs during negotiations for right-back Djed Spence.

Notably, this was an idea put forward by Tottenham directors and not a request for information by Inter.

Cuti Romero asking price set for Inter

Sportitalia transfer expert Gianluigi Longari now provides further details, which is that the asking price for the Argentina international is €50m.

That is just under what the Premier League side paid to buy him from Atalanta in 2022, the fee then €53.8m after an initial loan spell in 2021-22.

Although he only recently signed a new contract in August 2025, the rapport between the defender and Tottenham has plummeted in recent months.

Both club and player believe their time together is over, but with a contract until 2029, they need to reach an agreement.

Inter had already baulked at paying €50m for Marco Palestra, a young player with future sale value, so are unlikely to shell out a similar sum for a centre-back, not to mention his wage demands.

The 28-year-old already knows Serie A well, having played for Genoa, Juventus and Atalanta.

Multiple sources in Italy confirm Sassuolo defender Tarik Muharemovic is ready to join Leeds United after the clubs agreed a €40m fee, with half going to Juventus.

Sky Sport Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio, Fabrizio Romano and more all confirm the same details.

Muharemovic has chosen Leeds United

The centre-back had participated in the 2026 World Cup with Bosnia and Herzegovina this summer, and was widely expected to move on after two years at Sassuolo.

He made his way up from the Juventus youth academy and was sold to Sassuolo for just €2m in 2025 following the initial loan spell, but with the Bianconeri promised 50 per cent of the future sale fee.

It had been reported Juve considered bringing him back to base, as it would only cost them €18m instead of the €40m fee, but they preferred to just cash in on the sale.

Bournemouth and Sunderland were also strongly interested in Muharemovic, but the 23-year-old appears to be heading to Leeds United.

The central defender is expected in England over the next 48 hours to undergo a medical and sign the contract, once the final details have been ironed out.

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.

Serie A transfer news July 14, 2026

Roma are looking for new attackers and have already sent offers for both Alejandro Garnacho and Diego Moreira, according to Sky Sport Italia. The Giallorossi are also interested in West Ham’s Summerville and, according to Sportitalia, met the winger’s agent on Tuesday morning. Gazzetta claims that Brazilian talent Endrick is also among those monitored by Roma.

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.

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.

The start of a new chapter.

Yann Sommer tekent tot 2029 bij Club! pic.twitter.com/MoHlQi2gA2

— Club Brugge KV (@ClubBrugge) July 14, 2026

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

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)

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.

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

According to Sky Sport Italia, the intensive courtship of directors and new coach Ruben Amorim helped convince Modric that he should continue this experience at San Siro for another year.

The player has never disguised his desire to one day play for the Rossoneri, who he grew up supporting when Zvonimir Boban was in the squad.

He is still on vacation, but would seem to be heavily leaning towards giving the all-clear to one more season.

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.

Atalanta were ‘stunned’ that Manchester United abandoned their Ederson transfer, and confirm ‘he is happy to remain, so we’re working on a new contract.’

The deal had been done last month for €45m including add-ons, but could not be completed until after he had finished his participation in the 2026 World Cup with Brazil.

When he returned from that tournament, Manchester United made him undergo intensive medical tests, then pulled out of the deal, claiming that his knee had shown significant problems.

Atalanta have faith in Ederson

“We were stunned,” confessed director of sport Cristiano Giuntoli during today’s press conference.

“He is happy to remain and we are working on a new contract.”

Ederson had been available for such a good price precisely because his current contract with Atalanta only runs to the end of the season.

However, following the collapse of the move to Manchester United, the 27-year-old is now ready to put pen to paper on an extension in Bergamo.

He first came to Atalanta in 2022 for €22.9m from Salernitana, where he had joined from Corinthians just six months earlier.

Ederson helped them win the Europa League trophy and reach two Coppa Italia Finals with 16 goals and six assists in 180 competitive games.

Inter are still looking for a replacement for Denzel Dumfries, and according to Italian sources, Djed Spence of Tottenham and Atletico Madrid’s Nahuel Molina are among the Nerazzurri’s targets, while Strasbourg demand more than €35m for Guela Doué.

Inter haven’t yet signed a replacement for Dumfries, who has joined Real Madrid in a €20m deal this summer.

Inter: What’s next after Palestra and Khalaili deals fell through?

The Nerazzurri had reached an agreement with Atalanta and Marco Palestra before the Italian defender picked Chelsea instead.

The deal for Anan Khalaili was also practically done, but the Israel international failed medical tests, as Inter President Beppe Marotta confirmed on Monday.

This means the Nerazzurri effectively need to start their search for a new right-back from scratch.

Doué was seen as one of Inter’s main targets after the Palestra and Khalaili deals fell through, but according to Gazzetta and Corriere dello Sport, Strasbourg’s asking price exceeds €35m.

Nahuel Molina remains a long-time Nerazzurri target, while Spence is also being considered.

Another English defender, Genoa’s Brooke Norton-Cuffy, is also said to be on Inter’s radar, according to Sportmediaset and Corriere dello Sport.

According to Tuttosport, the list of potential Dumfries replacements also includes Verona’s Rafik Belghali, who is valued at €15m; Monaco’s Vanderson; Givairo Read of Feyenoord; and Dan Ndoye, a former Bologna winger who is valued at €40m by his club, Nottingham Forest.

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.

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.

In this episode of the Football Italia Summer Show, Lorenzo Bettoni sits down with Jonathan Grade, the producer behind Channel 4’s iconic Football Italia, to revisit one of the most influential football programmes ever broadcast in the UK.

Click here to subscribe to the official Football Italia YouTube channel

Together, they explore how Football Italia captured the imagination of millions of supporters and introduced an entire generation of fans to the drama, passion, and quality of Serie A during its golden era.

From legendary players and historic clubs to unforgettable moments that shaped Italian football’s global appeal, the discussion looks back at a period when Italy was the centre of the football world.

The conversation also examines the challenges Italian football has faced over the past three decades and what has been missing in Serie A’s evolution.

Lorenzo and Jonathan discuss the decline of stadium experiences, the importance of modern marketing, the changing landscape of television coverage, and how these factors have impacted the league’s ability to compete with Europe’s biggest competitions.

Paolo Maldini, Leonardo and Giovanni Malagò will finalise a shortlist of candidates for the Italy head coach role, with a final decision expected by next week, according to Gazzetta.

Italy will appoint a new head coach in the coming days and, according to Gazzetta, FIGC President Malagò will hold talks with technical director Maldini and his advisor Leonardo today.

Maldini, Leonardo and Malagò hold Italy coach talks

It’s not guaranteed that the trio will meet in person, but they are expected to make contact today to discuss the candidates for the job for the first time.

Gennaro Gattuso, a former teammate of Leonardo and Maldini at Milan, resigned after failing to secure World Cup qualification in March and was temporarily replaced by U21 coach Silvio Baldini for friendly games against Luxembourg and Greece in June.

Conte and Mancini were mentioned as the main candidates for the Italy job until yesterday, but Gazzetta notes that Conte is no longer in the first row, while Mancini holds a solid bond with Malagò.

The likes of Andrea Pirlo and Pep Guardiola have also been linked with the Italy job in recent hours, but Gazzetta highlights that securing a deal with the former Manchester City boss might prove tricky for the federation, primarily for financial reasons.

Maldini, Leonardo and Malagò are expected to agree on a shortlist today, while the final decision over the new Italy coach will reportedly be made by next week.

Aston Villa’s director of football operations, Damian Vidagany, insists Juventus target Emiliano Martinez is a ‘key element’ in the team, and the club has ‘no intention of letting him go.’

Aston Villa won’t let Emiliano Martinez leave this summer, the Premier League club’s director of football operations, Damian Vidagany, said on Tuesday.

Aston Villa tell Juventus they won’t sell Dibu Martinez

Speaking to 365Scores, the Aston Villa director said: “Emiliano is a very important player for us, and he is a key element in Aston Villa. All the talk about him leaving during the current summer transfer window is just rumours, and we rely on him heavily in the team’s project for next season.

“The goalkeeper’s future is settled; he is staying with us, and we have no intention of letting him go this summer,” Vidagany added.

“The team needs his efforts and extensive experience, and he is a very important element in our project for next season.”

Juventus had made Martinez their top summer transfer target for the goalkeeping role, as the Bianconeri are preparing to part ways with Michele Di Gregorio and potentially Mattia Perin as well.

With Aston Villa unwilling to sell Martinez this summer, the Bianconeri will likely look to Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario and Parma’s Zion Suzuki, who are two other goalkeepers linked with a move to Turin.

Several Italian sources have reported over the last few weeks that Martinez was open to joining Juventus, having already reached a principle of agreement with the Bianconeri.

Juventus, however, failed to strike a deal with the Premier League side as the Bianconeri were unwilling to pay more than €10m for the Argentine.

Crysencio Summerville’s agents met with Roma executives this morning, where they were informed that the Giallorossi will only pursue a deal for the West Ham winger if the total transfer fee does not exceed €40m and the player’s salary is capped at €4m per year, reports Alfredo Pedullà.

Roma met with Summerville’s agents in Rome this morning.

According to transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà, the meeting lasted around one hour.

Roma meet Summerville’s agents

The report claims that Roma confirmed their strong interest in the West Ham winger, but set their condition for the transfer.

The Giallorossi are ready to move negotiations forward as long as the transfer fee does not exceed €40m and the salary does not exceed €4m per season.

According to Pedullà, Summerville has attracted interest from some Premier League clubs, but they are not currently in advanced talks.

Roma expect an answer from the player’s agent and West Ham in the coming hours, perhaps as early as tonight, Pedullà says.

It was previously reported that Summerville’s agents had been in Rome since Monday, when they landed in the capital with another of their clients, Danilo Doekhi, who is on the verge of joining Roma’s city rivals, Lazio.

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.

“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 have replaced Allegri with Ruben Amorim, and at the Portuguese coach’s unveiling, Milan owner Cardinale noted that he wanted a team that “doesn’t play not to lose, but plays to win.”

“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.”

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Juventus are interested in USMNT striker Folarin Balogun and are preparing the first offer to sign Franck Kessié as a free agent.

Juventus have made just one summer signing so far, welcoming Italian winger Jeff Ekhator from Genoa, but new directors Giovanni Carnevali and Frederic Massara are working to give coach Luciano Spalletti more reinforcements.

Kessié agent’s demands for Juventus revealed

According to Gazzetta, the Serie A giants are ready to send an offer to sign ex-Milan and Atalanta star Franck Kessié as a free agent.

The 29-year-old refused to sign a contract extension with Al-Ahli and is open to returning to Serie A, but his agent has demanded over €5m in signing bonus, Gazzetta claims.

PSG forward Randal Kolo Muani remains Juventus’ top target, but the Bianconeri have been in talks with the Ligue 1 giants for weeks and have threatened that they’ll walk away from negotiations if PSG don’t lower their demands.

According to Gazzetta, Monaco striker Folarin Balogun has emerged as an option for the Bianconeri, who are also keeping a close eye on Parma’s Mateo Pellegrino.

The Athletic reported in June that Balogun is considering leaving Monaco this summer, with the French club’s asking price being €50m, making the USMNT star no cheaper than Kolo Muani.

Sky Sport Italia reports that Crysencio Summerville’s agents are already in Rome and are likely to meet Roma directors in the coming days, while the Giallorossi have sent offers for both Diego Moreira and Alejandro Garnacho, which are being evaluated by Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali.

Roma have already made moves to bring attacking reinforcements, focusing mostly on three players: Garnacho (Chelsea), Moreira (Strasbourg) and Summerville (West Ham).

Sky Sport transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio notes that Summerville’s agents are already in Rome, as they are the same representatives as Danilo Doekhi, who is undergoing medical tests with Lazio before completing a free transfer.

According to the report, it’s likely that they’ll meet Roma directors in the coming days.

Roma have already sounded out West Ham about the availability of the Netherlands international this summer.

According to the same source, the Giallorossi have also made offers for Garnacho and Moreira.

Chelsea and Strasbourg are owned by the same group, so, according to Di Marzio, Roma’s proposals are being evaluated by Behdad Eghbali, the co-owner of both clubs.

According to Di Marzio, Garnacho and Moreira’s agent, Jorge Mendes, is now in talks with Eghbali to convince him to accept the Giallorossi’s proposals.

Italy legend Roberto Baggio feels Lionel Messi is better than Pelé and Diego Armando Maradona ‘for what he’s been doing for 20 years’, while Marco Materazzi picks ‘the real’ Ronaldo.

Baggio and Materazzi joined other football legends for a debate on football, including the best player of all time.

Baggio picks Messi over Maradona and Pelé

The former Azzurri stars were joined by other legends, including Gabriel Omar Batistuta, Ronaldo, and Romario.

When the debate focused on the best player of all time, with Messi, Pelé and Maradona in contention, Baggio said: “It’s very hard; it’s even ugly to rank, as we are talking about the absolute essence of football. These three have been above the others.

“As of today, I’d say Messi for what he’s been doing for 20 years, in terms of quality and quantity. If I have to pick one, I’ll say his name, but we are talking about three incredible players.”

Materazzi, on the other hand, picked another player sitting at the same table: “I always say this, for me, it’s him [Ronaldo]. Because what he did without two knees, going 150 km/h, nobody has done it. I’m a boomer, but when I watch YouTube, and I see what he used to do, at a time when defenders hit hard, you feel he was Martian, and he really was a Martian.

“Sorry, Diego, Pelé and Messi. To me, it was him, the Phenomenon. The Real Ronaldo, but respect to Cristiano.”

Materazzi won the 2006 World Cup with the Italy national team, scoring two goals during that tournament, including the equaliser in the Final against France. That was the only World Cup Materazzi played.

Baggio, on the other hand, took part in three editions of the World Cup in 1990, 1994 and 1998 and famously missed a penalty in the 1994 Final against Brazil.

• READ MORE: Messi gifts Baggio Argentina shirt after World Cup quarter-final

Sky Sport Italia reports that Fiorentina have reached a verbal agreement with Real Madrid to sign 19-year-old defender Víctor Valdepeñas.

Fiorentina are close to completing their fifth summer signing as, according to Sky Sport Italia transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, the Viola have reached a verbal agreement with Real Madrid for versatile defender Valdepeñas.

Fiorentina close to signing Valdepeñas from Real Madrid

The 19-year-old can play either as a centre-back or a left-back.

According to the report, Fiorentina have effectively reached an agreement on a permanent transfer that includes a 50% sell-on clause for the Merengues.

The two clubs are now sorting out the final details and, more importantly, the timing of the defender’s transfer.

Real Madrid, in fact, are still unsure whether to send the 19-year-old to Florence right away or wait a few more weeks to let their new coach, José Mourinho, assess the player during the pre-season.

Fiorentina have been among the busiest Serie A clubs so far this summer, having already signed defenders Viery, Radu Dragusin and Alex Jimenez as well as midfielder Arthur Atta.

Gazzetta

Pirlo gamble: Maldini and Leonardo consider a surprise coach

Ex-coach of Juve and Samp, now he works in Dubai. Malagò: ‘Guardiola? You need to be compatible.’

Inter: Khalaili deal falls through, now they chase Spence

Milan, there’s Ramos with the No.9, Amorim at full speed

Juve, offer made for Kessié, Roma want Garnacho and Moreira

Final assault

France favourite, but Spain await Yamal

Corriere dello Sport

Inter, now Doué

Khalaili deal falls through.

CONI denies the eligibility of the Israeli wing-back. Dumfries’ heir still missing, relaunch for the Ivorian

Pressing on Strasbourg. Chivu: ‘We have no limits.’

Tug of war for the full-back, brother of PSG winger. Spence, Belghali, Ndoye and Molina sounded out too. Cristian: ‘After Scudetto and Coppa, we want to improve.’

Juve, Pellegrino advances

Cardinale, like Berlusconi, arrives at Milanello by helicopter.

Allegri hugs Napoli

Roma: Garnacho and Moreira

Dinner with Mbappé and Yamal

World Cup: The first semi-final France-Spain at 21:00

Tuttosport

Juve against everything

Not just refusals on the market: Yildiz and Thuram’s knees concern Spalletti and the fans

Patellofemoral syndrome for the Frenchman, as well as tendinopathy for the Turkishman, the season resumes with Douglas Luiz, the ‘star’ of the first day of pre-season. Carnevali’s ultimatum to PSG for Kolo Muani, then he gathers the players and staff members, highlighting the responsibility of being Bianconeri. David offered to Paris FC.

National team: Pirlo is on the rise

The new Italy technical director and his right-hand man want to rely on one of the Berlin heroes. Malagò is favourable to the idea of building a coach in-house.

Toro, Perri goes uphill too

Khalaili deal collapses: Inter ‘broken’

Golden World Cup with the Fantastic seven

Roma have reportedly made the first offer to Chelsea for Alejandro Garnacho, on loan with option to buy for total €40m, but also approached West Ham for Crysencio Summerville.

The Giallorossi are ready to begin building their team for the Champions League after ending a seven-year absence from the competition.

The priority is to give coach Gian Piero Gasperini some attacking wingers to suit his style of football.

Garnacho next on Roma list after Greenwood

With Mason Greenwood finally agreeing every detail of his transfer to Fenerbahce this evening, for €40m plus €2m add-ons and a salary at €10m per season, the next target is Garnacho.

Sky Sport Italia transfer pundit Gianluca Di Marzio claims that Roma have made the first formal proposal for Garnacho, a loan for €5m with option to make it permanent for another €35m.

The option could become an obligation if certain conditions were met.

That is not all, because the same source also notes that Roma have approached West Ham United for Summerville, fresh from participation in the 2026 World Cup with the Netherlands where he scored two goals and provided two assists.

The 24-year-old is not going to remain after the Hammers were relegated from the Premier League, but there is a lot of competition for his signature, including Galatasaray, Manchester United and Chelsea.

Another candidate for Roma is Diego Moreira, with a proposal to Strasbourg worth €30m plus a 10 per cent of the future sale fee.

Marco Palestra’s agent hit back angrily at Inter President Beppe Marotta and reveals when Chelsea got involved. ‘Over 45 days, Inter never reached an agreement with Atalanta.’

The Italy international had been on the verge of joining Inter last month in a deal believed to be worth €40m plus €5m add-ons.

However, before they could shake hands, Chelsea dived in with a proposal worth a good €10m more to Atalanta, and with double the salary on offer at San Siro.

Inter President Marotta bitterly criticised Palestra today during a press conference and mentioned agent Alessandro Lucci too.

“Take the case of Palestra, for example. It was the result of a decision made by the player, who backed out of a verbal agreement,” said Marotta.

“His agent could have steered him in a different direction, but chose this path instead, and we had to accept seeing another Italian player move to a league that is not in direct competition with ours.”

Palestra agent replies to Inter attack

Lucci did not take that lying down and has now given a statement to news agency ANSA.

“I listened with great sadness and at the same time enormous shock at the words of Inter President Marotta, who I’ve had a professional rapport with for over 25 years, doing many deals together,” said Palestra’s agent.

“The Inter directors, represented by Piero Ausilio, carried on constant and constructive talks with us on the opportunity to complete this transfer.

“However, the element that decided the outcome was not described accurately in today’s press conference. Over 45 days the two clubs, who were in daily contact, were never able to reach a definitive agreement.

“This allowed Chelsea, with whom contact began only two weeks earlier, as I had quickly informed the two clubs, burst in during the final days and sealed a deal with Atalanta, the player and with us to close the move rapidly.

“At this point, I hope that we can all turn the page and look to the future with calm, without more attacks as a pretext against a player who deserves respect.”

It was no secret that several months ago Palestra was approached by Inter and told them he would be more than happy to wait it out for a move to San Siro.

However, the failure to work out a deal with Atalanta stalled the process, and ultimately Chelsea came in with an equally strong project.

It is not the first time that Inter have struggled to agree terms with Atalanta, as they also came close with no progress for Ademola Lookman and Ederson.

Alex Jimenez is officially a Fiorentina player, on loan with an option to buy from Bournemouth, where he was forced to leave under a cloud after suspended for inappropriate messages.

The deal was somewhat surprisingly done last week, and he was already in Florence to undergo medical tests.

It’s widely believed the move is worth a total of €20m plus a 30 per cent cut of the future sale fee, if the option to make it permanent is taken up at the end of the season.

It is reported that the option has several clauses making it an obligation to buy, including once he reaches 30 appearances with the Viola.

Jimenez is training with Fiorentina

Although Fiorentina have not yet formally announced the signature, his contract has been deposited with the Lega Serie A, and he participated in the first day of pre-season training.

The 21-year-old has experience of Serie A already, having been at Milan from 2023 until his move to Bournemouth in September 2025.

That was a loan with obligation to buy for a total of €20m.

The return to Serie A was rather forced upon him, because the Telegraph newspaper note that Jimenez is currently suspended by the Football Association in England.

He was formally excluded from playing domestically in this country while it investigates claims he direct messaged a 15-year-old girl on social media.

The allegations with screenshots were made in May, after which he was dropped from the Bournemouth squad.

“AFC Bournemouth are aware of posts circulating on social media involving right-back, Alex Jiménez,” read a statement from the Premier League side in May.

“The club understand the seriousness of the matter and it is currently being investigated.”

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.

Maldini is in charge now along with his consultant Leonardo of choosing who will sit on the bench when Italy begin their Nations League campaign in September.

Pirlo emerges as Italy candidate

Until now, Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini had been the main contenders for a return to the job, along with the audacious idea of approaching Pep Guardiola.

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.

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.

The Giallorossi coach Gian Piero Gasperini released an interview with Radio Anch’io lo Sport, providing updates on Manu Koné, among other things, and admitting that the club might be forced to listen to offers for some of their top players.

Inter, Milan and Juventus

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.

New signing Gonçalo Ramos paid a surprise visit to his new teammates at Milanello today, on the first day of pre-season.

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.

Lazio and Cagliari done deals

Napoli will sell either Noa Lang or David Neres if they secure Ezequiel Zeballos’s signature this summer, according to Gazzetta.

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.

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).

Harry Winks and Jacopo Fazzini have arrived to undergo medical tests with Cagliari.

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)

Juventus director Giovanni Carnevali warns Paris Saint-Germain ‘demands are too high’ for Randal Kolo Muani and they could look elsewhere, but they ‘do not need’ Davide Frattesi from Inter.

The Bianconeri have been negotiating with PSG practically since the moment he arrived on loan in January 2025, but never seem to reach a new agreement.

That loan cost €3.6m and was extended to cover the Club World Cup in July 2025, but then he was loaned out to Tottenham Hotspur and sent back to base this summer.

Talks continue to drag on for a new deal, but even Carnevali now admits the situation is not progressing fast enough.

Juventus ready to give up on Kolo Muani

“The demands are too high, so either we reach an agreement, or we will turn to a different player,” confessed the Juventus chief on RAI GR Parlamento radio.

As Juve refuse to reach the €40m asking price, Paris Saint-Germain have begun talks for Kolo Muani with Aston Villa and Crystal Palace.

“The cost of players is growing constantly, with figures that are practically impossible, while Serie A club revenue cannot keep up with the likes of the Premier League,” continued Carnevali.

“We need to reduce costs and have an economic balance, which is difficult to achieve. There’s no point denying it, you can all see that our league is in a situation of stasis for the transfer market.”

A cheaper option within Serie A for the midfield would be Frattesi, who is on the market at Inter, but Carnevali insists Juventus can be ruled out of that race.

“Frattesi is an extraordinary lad who would do well at all big clubs, but we do not need a player of his characteristics.”

Inter President Beppe Marotta notes that new Chelsea signing Marco Palestra ‘backed out of a verbal agreement’ with the Nerazzurri, but blames the defender’s agent as well: ‘He could have steered him in a different direction.’

Inter President Marotta joined coach Cristian Chivu for a press conference on Monday, on the first day of the Nerazzurri pre-season.

The defending Serie A champions are still looking for a replacement for Denzel Dumfries, who joined Real Madrid in a €20m deal.

Marotta: Palestra ‘backed out of a verbal agreement’ with Inter

Their primary target, Marco Palestra, joined Chelsea two weeks ago despite having reached an agreement with Inter.

“We need to keep costs under control, not investments. I’m referring to players we can’t sign because their wages are too high and to agents, whose influence on the club’s finances is becoming increasingly significant,” Marotta said via FcInternews.

“We have to deal with these realities, which have a major impact on the transfer market.

“Take the case of Palestra, for example. It was the result of a decision made by the player, who backed out of a verbal agreement,” Marotta added.

“His agent could have steered him in a different direction, but chose this path instead, and we had to accept seeing another Italian player move to a league that is not in direct competition with ours.”

During his press conference, Marotta announced that Inter’s second target, Anan Khalaili, had failed his medical tests, meaning that his €25m transfer from Union Saint-Gilloise has fallen apart.

Inter have won three Serie A titles during Marotta’s reign, but the one conquered in 2025-26 under Chivu was his first one as the Nerazzurri’s president.

Inter began their pre-season today and will make their 2026-27 Serie A debut at home against Monza on August 22.

Cristian Chivu insists Inter ‘do not fear anybody’ in Serie A or Europe, will wipe the slate clean after winning the Double, and has fresh ideas for Benjamin Pavard and Andy Diouf.

Last season was his first full campaign in Serie A, yet he finished it with the Serie A and Coppa Italia trophies, so now the pressure is on to continue that extraordinary start.

Pre-season training begins today at the Appiano Gentile ground, so the coach sat down with Inter President Beppe Marotta for a press conference.

Chivu and Inter won’t stop at the Double

“The most important thing right now is motivation, because it’s never enough in terms of ambition and what we want to do next. It was a strong season, but we don’t want to stop here,” said Chivu.

“I have 50 games under my belt now, no longer 13. I’ll do my best, we want to be competitive on every front, and have the ambition to do even better than last year.”

Inter are revitalising the squad, as veterans like Yann Sommer, Stefan de Vrij, Francesco Acerbi and Denzel Dumfries have left.

“We lost players who wrote the history books here, and we want to thank them. We have a mixture of youth and experience, our squad is competitive. We want to have intensity and courage, without complaining.”

While last year so many coaches insisted the target was a top four finish, Chivu stood out by never hiding the depth of his ambition to win the Scudetto.

So he has a similar approach this time around when going in as reigning Champions of Italy.

“We do not fear anybody,” assured the Inter coach.

“I have nothing to prove, if not to myself. I still have a lot of responsibilities, doubts and duties towards these lads, even if I lifted two trophies last season, we always start from scratch.”

Whereas they excelled domestically in Serie A and the Coppa Italia, Chivu’s Inter did not go far in the Champions League, crashing out in the play-offs.

“You cannot have everything in life. We got two games wrong, but I take the positives from the experience. We lost at the last second to both Atletico Madrid and Liverpool, I took responsibility for my mistakes in the play-offs, but we overall played on level terms with everyone.

“I’d like us to improve in our courage, being more determined and going for the victory, not resting on our laurels. We can always be the best version of ourselves.

“I don’t think about what we won, but about what we need to do.”

When it comes to the transfer market, Chivu gave an update on the Benjamin Pavard situation after his failed loan at Olympique Marseille.

“He is our player, we all know the choices he made last year. He’s back now, we’ll see him at work, and then make a decision.”

The search for a Dumfries replacement has been tortuous, as first Chelsea poached Marco Palestra, then Anan Khalaili failed his medical, ending the move from Union Saint-Gilloise.

Instead, Chivu revealed he has a cunning plan to revitalise his squad.

“I have this crazy idea to use Andy Diouf as a wing-back, and at times in games he really does have the right courage to take men on. He changed some games like that, for example against Como.

“There will be matches where he is used in midfield, but I like him as a wing-back, he has characteristics we are lacking.”

Inter President Beppe Marotta has confirmed that Anan Khalaili failed his medical with the Italian authorities, so the €30m move from Union Saint-Gilloise is off. ‘The rules are very strict.’

The transfer had been agreed for €25m plus add-ons, and the Israel international underwent his regular club tests with no problems.

However, before joining an Italian club, he also needed to go through the strict CONI (Italian Olympic Committee) medical stress tests, and these flagged irregularities.

The player underwent another day of testing today, but although more were expected tomorrow, Inter President Marotta announced during this afternoon’s press conference that the decision had already been made.

Khalaili cannot play in Serie A

“We had negotiated the purchase of Khalaili, but he failed the medical tests, the CONI just informed us and I wanted to let you all know,” said Marotta.

“In Italy there are very strict rules on medical tests, so it is not a choice made by the club, we simply have to accept it, because this is about looking after the health of the player.

“When the CONI don’t give the certificate, he is not allowed to participate in any official sporting event in Italy.

“It’s sad, because we had carried on the negotiations with great effort, but now unfortunately we will have to think about an alternative.”

The stress tests largely focus on cardiology, so when Khalaili returns to Union Saint-Gilloise, he will have to deal with the medical staff there on any required treatment.

Italian rules are extremely strict, to the degree that players with an implanted defibrillator like Edoardo Bove and Christian Eriksen have been forced to continue their careers outside of Serie A.

Khalaili was set to be the replacement for Denzel Dumfries, who has joined Real Madrid for the €20m release clause in his contract.

“Dumfries preferred to conclude his career at a prestigious club like Real Madrid, so we had to find a substitute. Some of the fees going around are crazy, which make Italian football a mere spectator compared to the role we had in the past,” added Marotta.

They had been on the verge of an agreement worth €50m with Atalanta for Marco Palestra, only to be blown out of the water by a much bigger proposal from Chelsea.

Inter President Beppe Marotta feels retaining the Scudetto would be ‘an historic achievement,’ but they also ‘must do better in the Champions League’ while competing with financial powerhouses.

Their pre-season training started today at the Appiano Gentile complex, where they are going into the new season as the reigning Champions of Italy, having won both the Scudetto and the Coppa Italia.

Marotta raises the bar for Inter

“We are privileged to be here starting the new season as reigning holders of the Serie A and Coppa Italia titles,” said Marotta in his press conference.

“We’re very proud of two hard-fought victories, won thanks to our work ethic, sense of belonging, and the abilities of the coach, players and support of the club.

“Now we start by wiping the slate clean. We have fresh objectives, we are the only team participating in four competitions: Serie A, Champions League, Supercoppa Italiana and Coppa Italia. The Supercoppa will be just a one-off game with Lazio.”

It was a largely unexpected success story considering the change of coach from Simone Inzaghi to Cristian Chivu, but the trade-off was a poor Champions League showing this time around.

“These are all prestigious targets, but we must do better in the Champions League,” continued Marotta.

“Last season we went out to Bodo/Glimt, but that’s part of what makes this sport so wonderful.”

The attempts to revitalise the squad this summer have been hit hard by failed bidding wars, most notably losing Marco Palestra to Chelsea.

“We are well aware that we have difficulties and are up against European powerhouses, also in terms of their investment capabilities, but we participate with our work ethic that has always helped us stand out.

“It’s not guaranteed that whoever spends the most money will then win, but we can substitute money with a winning project thanks to consistency, quality, value of players and many other situations,” insisted the Inter President.

While the Champions League remains a target, Marotta warns that domestically the bar keeps getting raised too.

“Since 2020, no team has been able to win two Serie A titles in a row, so this can be an historic achievement. Our enemy within is the risk of feeling sated, so we must resist that at all costs, maintain the hunger that got us to these results.

“We must also do that via a sustainable modus operandi. The football world often sees clubs go bankrupt, and we know that our owners Oaktree arrived during a moment of difficulty. Now we are out of the Settlement Agreement with UEFA, they invested and accepted our needs to improve the infrastructure with €100,000 of investment in the Interello camp.

“Sustainability also means using our youth academy, as we have easily four players who can be used in Europe, whereas other clubs are struggling to meet those criteria. We also have the Under-23 team, the women’s team, all this make us a successful club.

“We’re missing something big lately, but we will try to achieve it, aware of our capabilities, and keep raising the bar.”

Beppe Bergomi insists that Paolo Maldini is the best choice for Italy and the FIGC in his new role as technical director, but says that he is still willing to offer his assistance if called upon: “If Paolo called me, I would listen to someone like him.”

Bergomi on Maldini and Italy’s next head coach: ‘He’s the best choice by some distance’

Maldini has recently been appointed as the new technical director of the Italian FA under recently-elected FIGC President Giovanni Malagò. He will be tasked with ‘rebuilding’ the Italy national team after three successive World Cup disappointments and with reshaping the wider state of football and youth development in Italy. 

Had Maldini not accepted the offer to return to the Italy national team set-up, there was a list of alternatives that reportedly included Bergomi, who says that he is still willing to offer his assistance if required. 

“I was pleased to be on the list,” said Bergomi in an in-depth interview with La Repubblica.  

“There’s a lot of respect between myself and Malagò, he was the one who let me carry the torch during the opening ceremony for the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, one of the most exciting moments of my life. 

“Had Paolo not accepted, I would have been among the possible alternatives and for me, that is a source of pride. Maldini is the best choice, by some distance.

“Paolo has experience, he has already been a director at a high level. He has good values, he is competent. I love him, I think he’s the best Italian player I’ve ever played with. He has a new position now, he will be able to make the difference.”

Later, when pushed on whether he would still be willing to assist in the Italy set-up if given the opportunity, Bergomi replied: “If Paolo called me, I would listen to someone like him. 

“I like being a commentator with Sky, but the Italy shirt has characterised my career, from 1982 all the way to 1998. I played in four World Cups. If I can help, I won’t back down.”

Maldini has also brought former Milan teammate, ex-Rossoneri and PSG director Leonardo with him as an advisor. 

Bergomi says that this is “a smart move. There will be a lot of work, you could have every possible quality, but it’s always better with two. Maldini is practical in the way he manages, Leo is a dreamer, it’s an interesting mix. 

“They will have to understand how to get the best out of the youth sectors, get the Azzurri supply chain working well. They tell me that there are two promising vintage years, the boys born in 2007 and 2010. 

“We all need to have the same principles, the same shared guidelines. The various age categories have to play with the same ideas. Think about the national team like a club. I recently watched a youth tournament won by a group of Spanish U11s, they all have a similar way of playing. 

“We also have a lot of talent, let’s not waste it. We need the courage to let our youngsters play and make mistakes.”

It remains to be seen who will be appointed as the next head coach of the Italy national team. Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte remain the frontrunners, and the candidacy of the ‘dream’ option Pep Guardiola has re-emerged over the last few days. 

“There is no one right choice, it depends on the football you believe in,” said Bergomi when discussing the candidates for the role of Italy CT. 

“Guardiola intrigues me, and when you have Paolo in your camp, you have the strength and the standing to go and talk to Pep. They can give it a try. 

“I’m a football romantic. These coaches have made a lot of money. I often hear that if they lower their demands, their status isn’t valued. But I would say, does someone like Guardiola, a football genius, need to think about his status?

“Leading a national team can be a stimulating challenge, he could see it as that, as a challenge. Of course, that doesn’t mean that the other candidates aren’t strong either.” 

Reports on Monday indicate that Mancini is the current favourite for the Italy job. 

“He’s perfect as a coach,” says Bergomi. “And he has the desire to return. He has vision, he knows how to identify talent, he deserves another opportunity.” 

And as for Conte, Bergomi says: “He knows how to build a team in a short period of time, both on the pitch and in the dressing room. He demands a lot but gives just as much.”

Bergomi has offered his own alternative option that he feels is worth looking at: “I’d also like a profile like (Cesc) Fabregas. His Como side is a model to study, He knows how to work with youngsters, he knows how to develop talent. A shame that he isn’t free and available.”

Inter are in contact with free agent John Stones, claim reports in Italy, but the former Manchester City man would not be considered a first choice for central defence.

This is not the first time that the 32-year-old has been linked with a possible move to Serie A this summer, seeing as his contract with Manchester City was allowed to run down.

He still has much to give, as confirmed by the fact he is playing for England at the 2026 World Cup and now preparing for Wednesday’s semi-final against Argentina.

Stones offered to various Serie A sides

Napoli and Juventus had been in talks, but didn’t seem particularly eager to pursue the deal.

Now Sportitalia transfer pundit Alfredo Pedullà claims that Inter are in direct negotiations with Stones and his entourage.

However, it is noted that this would only be if Benjamin Pavard was first sold, and that Stones would not be guaranteed regular playing time, as he is not a first choice at centre-back for the Italian giants.

Other clubs who have been linked with the free agent include Bayern Munich and Olympique Marseille, but his salary demands and signing-on fee requests are putting some off.

Roma have officially announced that Paulo Dybala has put pen to paper on a new contract extension that ties him to the club until the end of the 2026-27 season. 

La Joya had technically been a free agent for the first fortnight in July as his previous deal with Roma had expired on June 30. 

The Giallorossi have confirmed on Monday that Dybala will remain with the club for the 2026-27 season and reports from various outlets indicate that the 32-year-old has also agreed to take a significant cut in wages in order to extend his stay. 

Transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio confirms that this is a one-year contract, without an option to extend, and that Dybala will earn a base salary slightly under €3m per season, not including bonuses.

Dybala was Roma’s highest earner last season on a net wage reported to be worth €8m. 

Roma confirm Dybala’s contract extension

“AS Roma is delighted to announce that Paulo Dybala has signed a contract extension with the club until 30 June 2027,” read a statement on the club website.

“Since arriving in the capital in the summer of 2022, Dybala immediately ignited the passion of the Giallorossi faithful. Over the course of 139 appearances and 45 goals, he has established himself as a key figure on the pitch and a leader both on and off the field.

“The story between Roma and La Joya continues, with many more chapters left to write. Forward together, Paulo!”

Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has weighed in with his opinions on the general state of football in Italy, the need for reforms across the board and the state of affairs in the capital as Roma get back to work at the beginning of pre-season. 

The Giallorossi are back at Trigoria for their first day of pre-season training on Monday, and head coach Gasperini stopped to give an interview to Radio Rai 1 before stepping back onto the training pitch. 

He assured supporters that the ‘real’ work on the transfer market will begin from today, and that most clubs at the top level have had a slow start to the window on account of the ongoing 2026 World Cup in the United States. 

Gasperini also insists that Roma must become regulars in the Champions League before they start dreaming of the Serie A title, that consistent qualification into Europe’s premier competition will help them financially, which will then in turn push them on to fight for trophies.  

Gasperini also spoke about the recent appointment of Paolo Maldini to the position of technical director with the FIGC and the changes that he would like to see brought in across Italy, beginning with a review of how youth systems operate across the board. 

Gasperini on Roma’s ‘sleepy’ transfer window long-term goals

Beginning with his assessment of the transfer window thus far, Gasperini said: “Apart from a few teams, it’s been a fairly sleepy window up until now because of the World Cup, so many players are involved in the United States, their agents as well. 

“The clubs haven’t armoured themselves yet. The ‘real’ window will begin this week for most teams. All teams seem very keen to strengthen.” 

He also gave his opinions on the World Cup and the controversial hydration breaks that many argue are fundamentally changing the way the sport is played. 

“I think there are two types of football,” Gasperini hypothesised. “The one that is played in August and the one that is played in normal weather conditions. Playing football at certain temperatures is not the same type of sport. 

“I think it’s been a great World Cup with full stadiums, it’s been a great success in the United States. But from an aesthetics point of view, playing in these conditions isn’t ideal. I believe that the pauses are only because of these factors.”

Returning to the topic of Roma and the transfer window, his aims for the 2026-27 season and his long-term ambitions, Gasperini added: “Lots of teams want to strengthen in July, but we’ll have to see what happens in the window. 

“Inter are always the favourites, then there are another five or six teams who want to do well. Milan and Juve are out of the Champions League and will want to improve, they all have potential. 

“Roma must continue on its own journey: We shouldn’t think about results, we have to try and stabilise at the top, to stay in the Champions League, which then guarantees the possibility of strengthening from an economic point of view. 

“If we manage to stay in those positions for multiple years, then we can aspire to even more and also aim for the Scudetto.”

Gasperini: ‘Most Serie A sides struggle to field Italians, it’s a cultural fact’

Gasperini was asked if he thinks there will be a bigger presence of Italian players in Serie A this season. 

He replied: “It’s a speech that applies to everyone, not just to Roma. There are quotas in the Serie A and UEFA lists, such as the 4+4 rule. Hardly anyone, including Roma, can tick those boxes, it’s a cultural fact. Even with the players from our own youth teams, those four players are almost never actually part of the team. 

“This has to become a fundamental talking point. Even if the clubs are made up of mostly foreign players, it has to be a focal point that we have to fight for.”

Gasperini was then asked for his opinion on the appointment of Paolo Maldini as the new technical director of the FIGC and what this means for the ‘rebirth’ of football in Italy.

“There will be a rebirth, but not just because of one or two individuals, nor with the new coach,” he replied. “It has to be a system, which evidently hasn’t been working until now, it hasn’t been able to bring through players of the required level. 

“Aside from good people, there will have to be bigger reforms. There are lots of kids in the academies. If none of them come through, the problem is with the adults, not with the children. I believe that there is more quality in our football than what has been achieved with the national team in recent years. 

“It won’t be easy, but I think we’ll be able to put a competitive national team out onto the pitch. But, the system has to be reviewed, particularly the youth sector.”

Gasperini on Kone and Dybala

Gasperini was also asked if he thinks Roma will have to sell a key player like Manu Kone in order to help with the club’s financial fair play situation. 

He said: “The financial fair play conditions are never exactly precise or defined, they vary from team to team. It’s undeniable that Roma know that we have to balance the budgets, which has been tough in recent years. 

“I’d hoped that entry into the Champions League would have been enough, but budgets are important for clubs and must be respected. I think there will be more clarity in the coming weeks.”

And on Kone specifically, he added: “Kone had a great first half of the season, and then was out of action due to injury for a bit during the second half. He’s having a great World Cup. He didn’t play with the France national team last year, but now he’s been able to claim a starting spot. It shows his potential and the work he’s put in.”

Lastly, Gasperini hinted that a contract extension may be close when asked for an update on Paulo Dybala. 

He said: “We’ve been stuck in the starting blocks for a little while. Partly because of holidays, partly because of the strong end to the season. We’ve enjoyed that this summer. From today onwards, there will be important steps forward. The work begins now, the 2026-27 season starts now, last year is over.”

Paolo Maldini has accepted the Italian Football Federation’s offer to become the new technical director of the Azzurri, with his former Milan teammate Leonardo set to join him in an advisory role.

Click here to subscribe to the official Football Italia YouTube channel.

What to expect from Maldini as Azzurri legend appointed as Italy technical director

The pair will be entrusted with overseeing the long-term development of Italian football while playing a key role in shaping the national team’s future. Their first major responsibility will be appointing the next head coach of the Azzurri.

Lorenzo Bettoni and Adam Summerton analyse what the arrivals of Maldini and Leonardo could mean for Italy, the vision they are expected to bring, and the challenges they will face as they attempt to guide the national team into a new era.

Watch the full episode below

Sandro Tonali has recently joined Tottenham Hotspur in a deal that has made him the most expensive Italy international of all time, and the former Milan man also sits comfortably at the top of the list of Italian players with the highest cumulative transfer fees, leading Al-Qadsiah’s Mateo Retegui in second place. 

Tonali has recently joined Tottenham in a deal believed to be worth around €115m (just shy of £100m) including bonuses and add-ons, making him the most expensive Italy international of all-time. 

Tonali had already cost Newcastle a package worth a potential €70m when he moved to St James’s Park from Milan in the summer of 2023, and had cost the Rossoneri a double-figure fee when he joined them from Brescia. That means he has raked in just shy of €200m in total transfer fees across his career already. 

Tonali is one of three Italy internationals past and present whose combined transfer fees exceed the €100m mark. 

Second on the list is Al-Qadsiah’s Retegui, who held the Italian transfer record when he joined the Saudi Pro League outfit from Atalanta last summer. La Dea earned in excess of €65m from that particular transfer. 

Leonardo Bonucci completes the top three for most expensive Italy players by cumulative transfer fees. His most expensive move came when he joined Milan for €42m in 2017, but was signed back by the Bianconeri the following season in a deal reported to be worth €35m. 

Below is the full list of the top 10 Italy players by their cumulative transfer fees. 

Top 10 Italy players by cumulative transfer fees 

1. Sandro Tonali – €194.4m
2. Mateo Retegui – €109.9m
3. Leonardo Bonucci – €107m
4. Christian Vieri – €99m
5. Moise Kean – €79m
6. Riccardo Calafiori – €78.1m
7. Jorginho – €77.8m
8. Giacomo Raspadori – €77m
9. Mario Balotelli – €72.5m
10. Gianluca Scamacca – €71m

* Fees according to Sky Sport Italia.

Dino Zoff has weighed in on the appointment of his former ‘pupil’ Paolo Maldini to the role of technical director in the Italy national team set-up, and says that he must be given the freedom to ‘follow his beliefs’ and make the changes that he sees fit. 

Zoff comments on Maldini’s Italy appointment: ‘A perfect appointment in terms of character’

Maldini has recently been confirmed as the new technical director of the FIGC, signing a four-year contract that will see him through until the end of the 2030 World Cup. 

He will be joined by former Milan teammate, ex Rossoneri and PSG director Leonardo, who will serve as an advisor. They will work in close collaboration with Giovanni Malago, who has recently been elected as the replacement for Gabriele Gravina as President of the FIGC.

This has been described as the beginning of a new era for Italy, who have failed to qualify for each of the last three editions of the FIFA World Cup. 

“It’s a choice that I fully understand,” said World Cup-winning captain and former Italy head coach Zoff in an interview with Il Resto del Carlino.

He continued: “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. 

“It has to be the same assessment for the next coach that comes in. Maldini has to be free to follow his beliefs, without external interference. It won’t come from me, I don’t have a name to suggest for the role.”

Asked what advice he would give to Maldini if he had the chance, Zoff said: “It is essential that there is clarity on the roles and responsibilities. I don’t doubt Malago, I know him well. I hope that there is an awareness of where we are at the moment across the whole organisation surrounding the national team.”

Ederson will not be joining Manchester United this summer, and the latest reports claim that Atalanta will instead offer the Brazilian a new contract in an attempt to keep him in Bergamo. 

What next for Ederson after failed Manchester United move?

Manchester United and Atalanta had shaken hands over a €45m package for Ederson, who was set to move to the Premier League after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. 

However, reports over the last few days have made it clear that the move will no longer be happening after concerns that emerged during the player’s medical. 

Ederson had the first stage of his tests done while in the United States during the World Cup, but this did not satisfy United, who brought the player over to the UK for further checks before deciding against proceeding with the deal.

Ederson is currently into the final year of his contract with Atalanta, expiring in the summer of 2027, and according to the latest updates from Fabrizio Romano, La Dea will seek to offer the Brazilian a new contract now that his move to Manchester United is off. 

Atalanta remain clear in their stance that there are no major fitness or medical issues hampering the midfielder and they are keen to sit down and discuss the player’s future with his agents and representatives in the coming weeks. 

Atalanta are reportedly ‘prepared’ to welcome Ederson back into the squad, but offering him a new contract could also help strengthen the club’s position if the player is to seek another move away this summer or in January.

Ederson is currently on holiday after his involvement with the Brazil squad at the World Cup.

Italy have a new President and a new technical director of the FIGC, which means that the appointment of a new head coach is up next on the agenda, and Monday’s reports indicate that Roberto Mancini remains the frontrunner for two key reasons. 

Why Mancini is the current favourite for the Italy national team head coach role

The Italy national team is undergoing a revolution of its staff at the highest levels: Giovanni Malagò has replaced Gabriele Gravina as President of the FIGC, Paolo Maldini has recently been appointed as technical director and President of Club Italia, Leonardo has joined as an advisor and now they turn their focus to finding a replacement for Gennaro Gattuso as CT.

For several weeks, Mancini and Antonio Conte have been tipped as the two leading candidates to step in as head coach of the Italy national team. Both have done the job before, both are vastly experienced at the highest levels and both are reportedly willing to return to the Azzurri set-up. 

Reports on Sunday indicated that Pep Guardiola has also re-emerged as a possibility following the appointment of Maldini as technical director. Other outsiders that have been mentioned include Andrea Pirlo and Carlo Ancelotti. 

However, reports from the Corriere dello Sport indicate that Mancini is still the favourite for the Italy national team job for two key reasons. 

First is his long-standing relationship and the fact that he reportedly sees eye-to-eye with newly-elected FIGC President Malagò. 

Secondly is the fact that a large number of the Italy national team players are keen for Mancini to return. The players reportedly pushed for Mancini to return after Luciano Spalletti left his position as head coach in 2025. 

The fact that he has also delivered a trophy for Italy in the past, the fact that he is keen to focus on the development of young talents and his general familiarity with Coverciano and the national team set-up are, of course, of benefit to Mancini as well. 

However, nothing is set in stone yet, and as Malagò has recently insisted: “There could also be a surprise” in the offing as well.

La Gazzetta dello Sport 

Mythical 

Sinner: He’s still the King. Historic double at Wimbledon 

Jannik triumphs in four sets against a great Zverev. It’s his fifth grand slam. Cahill and Vagnozzi: ‘A liberation’

‘I saw my mum stepping out of the stadium a couple of times, it was tough for her’

Corriere dello Sport 

And the Sinner is …

Galactico | Beats Zverev in four sets, the fifth slam of his career

Wimbledon is his home: Second triumph in a row. Jannik is the pride of Italy

He falls 1-0 behind, fights back and shines: 6-7, 7-6, 6-3 and 6-4 in around four hours. ‘I give my life to tennis. The sporting movement in our country is special: We’re incredibly strong in Moto GP and Kimi is a golden boy’

Tuttosport 

His majesty 

Sinner, a crowning double at Wimbledon

On the hallowed turf, in an exhilarating surge of momentum, Jannik turns the tables on a formidable Zverev (6-7, 7-6, 6-3, 6-4). His fifth grand slam banishes the ghosts of Roland Garros: ‘We had endless days after Paris. I give my entire life to tennis. I didn’t think I’d win again here. Am I a symbol of Italy? We have an incredible movement in our country across all sports, happy to be part of it’

Sky Sport Italia report that Sassuolo defender Tarik Muharemovic must choose between three Premier League sides, Leeds United, Bournemouth and Sunderland.

While transfer pundit Fabrizio Romano notes that Leeds United are the most confident of achieving a deal, having presented a verbal proposal to the centre-back, this is by no means to be taken for granted.

Muharemovic heading to Premier League

Instead, Sky Sport Italia expert Gianluca Di Marzio claims this evening that a final decision will be made over the next few days, with two other Premier League teams definitely still in the running.

They are named as Bournemouth and Sunderland by the Italian reporters.

Newcastle United have also been mentioned earlier today by the Corriere dello Sport and Sportitalia.

Sassuolo set an asking price of €40m, aware that 50 per cent of that will go to his former club Juventus.

The Bianconeri had also been interested in bringing the Bosnia and Herzegovina international back to Turin, especially as they would effectively get him half-price, but ultimately decided against it.

Muharemovic was in the Bosnia and Herzegovina squad at the World Cup this summer and turned 23 in February.

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.

There were weeks of talks before Maldini finally accepted the role of technical director at the Italy camp, which has been created especially for him to give some structure and consistency to the Nazionale.

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

“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.

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.

After weeks of speculation and talks, the new role of technical director of the Italy squad has finally been filled with the announcement that Maldini will take over running the Azzurri.

Maldini ready to reshape Italy

“This is great news for Italian football, because we have brought in one of the most illuminated and sincere people in the sport,” his former Milan and Italy teammate Costacurta told Sky Sport Italia.

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.

A surprising twist was the introduction of Brazilian Leonardo as a consultant, reuniting the pair who had worked together at Milan.

“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.

Roma could end up doing a double deal with Chelsea, because negotiations can intensify for both Alejandro Garnacho and Diego Moreira, who is at RC Strasbourg.

The Giallorossi have abandoned hope of securing Mason Greenwood from Olympique Marseille, as he has agreed a move to Fenerbahce instead.

Moreira and Garnacho on Roma radar

The next name on the list is Moreira, who turns 22 next month and who Chelsea sold to RC Strasbourg for €8.5m in the summer of 2024.

Both clubs are under the same banner of consortium BlueCo and owner Todd Boehly.

As part of that agreement, Chelsea have first refusal on the player, one that they do not seem interested in activating.

However, Sportitalia transfer pundit Alfredo Pedullà insists that the fact the clubs are owned by the same people could see them potentially work out more favourable terms if combined with a swoop for Chelsea’s Garnacho.

La Gazzetta dello Sport claim that Roma are offering €35m plus bonuses, including a 10 per cent sell-on fee, to buy Moreira, while they would prefer to get Garnacho on loan with an option to buy.

Considering Garnacho’s career has stalled due to a lack of playing time, first at Manchester United and then Chelsea, he would relish the opportunity to play regularly under Gian Piero Gasperini.

Their qualification for the Champions League has also helped the situation, along with the presence of Garnacho’s good friend Paulo Dybala.

Paolo Maldini and Leonardo are the new technical leaders of the Italy national team set-up, and reports on Sunday claim that Pep Guardiola has again become an option for the vacant national team head coach role under the new leadership. 

Could Italy make a move for Guardiola under Maldini and Leonardo leadership?

The FIGC have recently confirmed that Maldini has been appointed as the federation’s new technical director and President of Club Italia on a four-year contract that will see him through until the end of the 2030 World Cup. He will be joined by his former Milan teammate, ex-Rossoneri and PSG director Leonardo as an advisor.

Maldini’s is a four-year project, and with unprecedented powers in his new role, he is expected to make widespread changes to the way that the national team and youth systems operate. 

However, up first on his agenda is the appointment of a new head coach. 

For weeks, the two frontrunners have been Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte. Conte has the backing of the Serie A clubs, while Mancini has a long-standing relationship with FIGC President Giovanni Malagò. 

Both have held the role previously, boast vast levels of management experience, but both come with their fair share of complaints as well: There are concerns that Conte might not be the best fit on a tactical level, while Mancini’s decision to leave Italy in order to join Saudi Arabia 2023 is still a bitter pill for some to swallow. 

According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, neither Conte nor Mancini are ‘at the top of Maldini and Leonardo’s list’. Now, Guardiola has come back into the frame and the pink paper insists that the former Manchester City and Barcelona tactician is no longer a ‘fantasy’ option. 

The biggest issue with Guardiola is his salary, which La Gazzetta dello Sport claims was close to €25m gross during his final season with Manchester City in 2025-26. 

The Serie A clubs are expected to make a contribution towards the salary of the new head coach in order to help bring in a top-level CT, but even so, they would not be able to provide for a salary anywhere near the level that Guardiola was earning at The Etihad.

La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that there is still hope, but much will depend on the discussions that take place between the key figures in this new Italy project, i.e. Maldini and Leonardo. The fact that Guardiola is reportedly keen to step into international management at some stage of his career also helps Italy. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport also suggests that Carlo Ancelotti and Andrea Pirlo could be among the alternative options if Italy decide against Conte, Mancini or Guardiola.

Fabio Capello believes that the FIGC have made the right call in appointing Paolo Maldini as its new technical director, is pleased to see Leonardo joining him as an advisor, but says that Roberto Mancini’s previous mistakes are too great to simply forget: ‘I’ve already said I would go with Conte’. 

Maldini has recently been appointed as the new technical director of the FIGC and has also been named the President of Club Italia on a four-year contract that will see him through until the end of the 2030 World Cup. He will be joined by former Milan teammate Leonardo, who will serve as an advisor. 

This is the beginning of a new era for the Italy national team following the departures of previous FIGC President Gabriele Gravina, head coach Gennaro Gattuso and delegation chief Gianluigi Buffon following the failure to get past Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup play-off final at the end of March. 

Gravina has recently been replaced by Giovanni Malagò, who, as of Saturday night, has made his first significant appointment in the Italy national team set-up by bringing in Maldini. Next up is a decision on a new head coach with Mancini, Antonio Conte and even potentially Pep Guardiola, again, among the frontrunners.

Capello has given his verdict on the recent appointment of Maldini, Leonardo and the potential next CT in an in-depth interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Capello: ‘Maldini was the first name on Italy’s list, he’s the person we need’

Capello is convinced about Maldini’s qualities, telling La Gazzetta dello Sport: “Nobody better than him would be able to do it.” 

He continued: “I’m really happy about it. Paolo was the first name on their list and they’ve got him, he’s definitely the person we need. I’m happy for the national team and also for him. He’s serious, capable and attentive. He doesn’t speak, he works. He has ideas, he will have a well-defined project in his mind already.” 

Capello also gave his verdict on the appointment of Leonardo, who will serve as an advisor to Maldini. 

“He’s another guy who knows a lot about football,” said Capello. “If Maldini wanted him to be close by, bringing together a partnership that was born in Milan, it is because there is so much to do. 

“We have to recover on multiple different fronts, obviously starting with the young talents. They’ve chosen to take on a big commitment because they are clearly convinced by it. I will repeat: They are both serious, and more importantly, they understand football.”

What did Capello learn from watching Maldini up close during his time with Milan? 

“Everyone has seen what he did with the Rossoneri,” said Capello. “He’s not a yes man, he wants to have the freedom to change things, he has an exact plan and wants to make that happen.” 

And how important is it that Maldini is given full control to make the changes that he wants to?

“It’s very positive. Without that, he would have never accepted,” Capello insists. “Someone like him has to be free to put his ideas to good use. I’m sure that he won’t have made much of a fuss on an economic level, more so that he wants to be able to put the ideas he has in mind into practice, and in that way, he can be really useful.”

Milan won the Serie A title with Maldini as a director, but he ended up leaving the club at the end of the following season after a series of disagreements with the club ownership. 

Capello says: “We have to consider that relationship with the owners. It’s difficult when yo hit turbulence. You really have to understand the history behind that. The Scudetto victory was incredible, but it’s true that things got a bit complicated after that. I know Paolo has charisma, that he is a winner and has been a key figure everywhere he has been.”

Leonardo also has plenty of history with Milan, and also as a director at PSG. Asked if he is ‘too’ used to having money readily available to spend at those clubs, Capello said “But money has nothing to do with it. It’s all about ideas, not resources. 

“You have to be able to understand what is missing and what needs to happen, and then find the way to achieve those goals. Additionally, Leo is a great person, which doesn’t hurt. He and Paolo are coming in strong in their beliefs, ideas and skills. Theirs will be a clear project and I’m curious to see how it will develop when they present it, beginning with the next head coach.”

And who would Capello pick if he were in charge? 

“I’ve already said Conte, who has done well with the Azzurri, Mancini is also good, but leaving the national team up the creek a few days before a series of important matches is too big to forget.”

Greatness recognises greatness: Lionel Messi was photographed alongside Italy legend Roberto Baggio and gave him a match-worn shirt shortly after Argentina’s 2026 World Cup quarter-final victory over Switzerland in the early hours of Sunday morning. 

Messi and Baggio team up for iconic photograph

Baggio was in attendance in Kansas City as Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra-time to book their place in the World Cup semi-final for the third time in four tournaments. 

Baggio was photographed alongside the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, widely recognised as the greatest player of all time, and was given one of his match-worn shirts after the full-time whistle. 

“Thank you, Leo, for your precious gift and for your affection. I love you lots, my friend,” wrote Baggio , all smiles in a picture posted to his Instagram profile.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Roberto Baggio (@robertobaggio)

Reports in Italy claim that Juventus have sent an opening offer to Parma for centre-forward Mateo Pellegrino, which has been turned down by the Gialloblu. 

Report: Parma turn down opening Juventus offer for Pellegrino

Juventus are on the hunt for a new striker now that Dusan Vlahovic’s contract has expired, and despite negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain for Randal Kolo Muani, reports over the last few days indicate that Juventus are beginning to shift their focus to a deal for Parma’s Pellegrino instead. 

The Old Lady have already brought in 19-year-old Jeff Ekhator from Genoa, but are keen to add another, more experienced option to their ranks. Juve are also expected to listen to offers for Jonathan David, Lois Openda and Arkadiusz Milik should they come in.

According to reports from Tuttosport, Juventus have sent an opening proposal to Parma for Pellegrino, who reportedly has suitors in the Premier League and LaLiga as well. 

Juventus have reportedly offered an initial loan deal with a conditional obligation to buy for €30m. The obligation to buy clause would be ‘easily achievable’, potentially linked to a top-half finish in Serie A next season. 

This proposal has reportedly been turned down by Parma, although the two parties are not a million miles apart. 

Pellegrino himself is said to be keen on the move, Parma are reportedly willing to sell for a fee in the region of €30m, but either want this upfront, or if they are to agree to a loan, they would want a larger loan fee.

According to Calciomercato.com, the relevant parties are due to discuss the matter again within the coming hours.

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.

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?

France: Manu Kone (Roma), Marcus Thuram (Inter), Adrien Rabiot (Milan), Mike Maignan (Milan).

Spain: None.

England: None.

Argentina: Nico Paz (Como), Lautaro Martinez (Inter).

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. 

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. 

“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.

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.

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. 

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. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport indicates that it will probably cost Inter more to secure a deal for Doué than it did for Khalaili: An agreement for Khalaili was found at €25m plus bonuses. 

Alternative options reportedly include Dodo from Fiorentina, Genoa’s Brook Norton-Cuffy and Hellas Verona’s Rafik Belghali.

Inter captain Lautaro Martinez struck in the 121st minute of Argentina’s World Cup quarter-final against Switzerland in the early hours of Sunday morning to confirm his nation’s spot in the semis, where they will go up against archrivals England. 

Argentina required extra-time to overcome Switzerland in their 2026 World Cup quarter-final, which ended 3-1 thanks to Lautaro’s tie-settling strike right at the end of proceedings. Lionel Scaloni’s side have had to play 120 minutes in all three of their knock-out matches at the tournament so far. 

Alexis Mac Allister gave the reigning World Champions a 10th-minute lead, which was cancelled out by former Bologna winger Dan Ndoye in the 67th minute. Julian Alvarez sent Argentina 2-1 up in the second half of extra-time and Lautaro put the game to bed in injury-time.

It was Thiago Almada who had carried the ball into the area and tested Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel with a low shot, which was saved and parried to Lautaro, who made no mistake with his first-time finish on the rebound.

This was the Inter striker’s second ever World Cup goal, his second at the 2026 tournament following his penalty in Argentina’s 3-1 group stage victory over Jordan.

Watch: Lautaro Martinez sends Argentina through to World Cup semi-finals

Lautaro Martinez with the icing on the cake for Argentina pic.twitter.com/7iHow8lZeK

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) July 12, 2026

La Gazzetta dello Sport 

Maldini yes 

The reconstruction of the national team begins 

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 

Gattuso: ‘Putting on my hard hat’

Lazio, Rino’s battle 

‘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 

Zaniolo case, isn’t training with UDinese 

Asking for more money

Norway vs England takes place on Saturday evening, for a place in the World Cup semi-finals, in a quarter-final pitting the tournament’s most feared striker against the Three Lions’ title ambitions.

The two sides arrived by contrasting routes. England survived a 3-2 thriller against hosts Mexico at the Azteca, holding on with ten men to progress, while Norway followed up Erling Haaland’s late winner against Ivory Coast by dumping out five-time champions Brazil, the win that carried them to a first World Cup quarter-final.

Haaland has been the driving force, scoring five goals in his first three appearances at the finals.

There is a strong Serie A flavour to the Scandinavian squad.

Alexander Sorloth, linked with Juventus this window as a possible Dusan Vlahovic replacement, supports Haaland in attack, while Sassuolo midfielder Kristian Thorstvedt provides an option on the bench.

Bologna’s Tobjorn Heggem starts in central defence for Norway.

In the England camp, Trevoh Chalobah, the subject of Inter interest and a rebuffed €25 million bid from Como this summer, is among the defensive contingent, as is John Stones, who starts for the Three Lions amid interest from the likes of Inter.

World Cup 2026: Norway vs England Lineups

Norway XI: Nyland; Ryerson, Ajer, Heggem, Moller Wolfe; Berg, Odegaard, Berge; Schjelderup, Haaland, Sorloth
England XI: Pickford; Konsa, Stones, Guehi, O’Reilly; Rice, Anderson, Bellingham; Madueke, Kane, Gordon

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.

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.

Kevin De Bruyne has reassured Napoli supporters that he will come back stronger next season, hours after Belgium’s World Cup ended in quarter-final heartbreak.

The Red Devils bowed out following a tight 2-1 defeat to Spain, undone late on by Mikel Merino’s winner.

De Bruyne was among Belgium’s key men across the tournament, and he was stopped by DAZN in the mixed zone afterwards and asked whether he had a message for the Napoli faithful.

“Let me take a break, I’ve just finished the last game of the season. It’s been a tough year, I worked hard and I’ve shown I can return in top condition after a very serious injury,” he said, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“Let me take a break and then I’ll be back.”

De Bruyne eyes strong Napoli return after injury-hit year

The comments speak to what has been a testing first campaign in Naples for the former Manchester City playmaker, whose debut season was disrupted by a significant injury.

That he was able to recover in time to play a leading role for Belgium at the World Cup underlines the point he was keen to make.

Now the focus shifts to next season under Massimiliano Allegri, with De Bruyne set for a short rest before returning to build on his first year at the club.

For Napoli, keeping their marquee signing fit and firing will be central to their bid to wrestle back the ground ceded to the division’s front-runners.

Fiorentina have completed the signing of Arthur Atta, with the midfielder joining on a permanent deal from Udinese.

According to the club’s official announcement, the Viola have acquired the Frenchman outright, handing Fabio Grosso another new face as his squad takes shape.

Born in Rennes on 14 January 2003, Atta arrived in Italian football via Metz and broke through in Friuli, where his final season announced him as one of Serie A’s most promising young midfielders.

Fiorentina win race for Udinese midfielder Atta

The 23-year-old made 36 appearances across Serie A and the Coppa Italia last season, scoring six goals and providing four assists, production that did not go unnoticed.

The midfielder had been tracked by some of the division’s biggest clubs, with Juventus, Inter and Milan all credited with interest in recent weeks, making Fiorentina’s swoop a notable statement of intent.

It caps a productive spell in the market for the Viola, who have moved quickly on several fronts this window: Radu Dragusin has arrived from Tottenham, Alex Jimenez is set to join from Bournemouth, and the club have pursued reinforcements across the pitch as they prepare for a European campaign under Grosso.

In Atta, they add a young, physically mature midfielder with top-flight pedigree and room to grow, precisely the profile ambitious sides build around.

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.

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.

The France international’s name had been linked in recent weeks with Napoli, now coached by his great admirer Massimiliano Allegri.

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.

Corriere dello Sport confirms that Napoli have an agreement in place with Boca Juniors talent Exequiel Zeballos, whose agent met Giovanni Manna in Naples earlier this week.

Boca Juniors winger Zeballos, 24, is ready to join Napoli and has already agreed to personal terms with the Serie A giants.

Details behind Zeballos’ agreement with Napoli

The news was first reported by Alfredo Pedullà earlier this week, and Corriere dello Sport adds more details about the agreement between Napoli and the Argentine.

According to the report, Zeballos has agreed to sign a four-year deal worth €1.3m per season. Zeballos’ agent reportedly met Napoli director Manna in Naples on Wednesday, confirming his client’s desire to move to the Stadio Maradona.

The 24-year-old only wants to join Napoli and is eager to wait for an agreement between the Partenopei and his club, Boca Juniors.

The player has a €20m clause, which Napoli won’t match given that Zeballos’ contract runs out on December 31, 2026.

Boca have frozen him out of the team as he’s refused to sign a new deal, and Napoli hope to secure a deal with the Argentinian club for around €10m.

Pedullà reported that the Partenopei had already offered €10m, while Tuttosport reported that the Serie A side is preparing an opening bid of €9m.

Gazzetta reports that Manchester United were concerned about the condition of Ederson’s right knee, but Atalanta believe the Brazilian is fully fit and might offer him a new contract, given that he has less than a year left on his current deal.

Manchester United have abandoned the deal to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson for €45m.

The two clubs and the player have had an agreement in place for over a month, but Ederson didn’t pass the second part of his medical tests held in Manchester.

Why Man United decided against signing Ederson

According to Gazzetta, the Red Devils were not convinced about the condition of Ederson’s right knee, which didn’t meet the athletic standards required by the Premier League side.

Ederson did undergo arthroscopic surgery on his right meniscus in August last year, but after that he went on to play 3,169 minutes across all competitions with La Dea, collecting 30 appearances in Serie A and nine in the Champions League.

Ederson was the fourth outfield player with the most minutes played at Atalanta last season, and La Dea believes that the Brazilian, regardless of Manchester United’s assessment, is fully fit.

Some Italian media believe that performances from Roma’s Manu Koné at the World Cup have convinced the Red Devils to drop Ederson to try to sign the Frenchman instead.

According to Corriere dello Sport, however, the Giallorossi will demand at least €55m for Koné.

Manchester United’s decision leaves Atalanta in trouble given that Ederson’s contract in Bergamo expires in 2027 and the Nerazzurri will probably need to offer the Brazilian a new deal unless another club knocks on their door in the coming weeks.

According to Il Corriere dello Sport, Roma will demand at least €55m for Manchester United target Manu Koné, while Matias Soulè’s agent has travelled to England to meet Sunderland and Fulham.

Roma may sell some of their star players in the coming weeks due to financial needs, as UEFA has fined the Giallorossi and they must improve their financial records in the upcoming months.

Premier League interest in Roma’s Koné and Soulè

It is no secret that France international Koné has attracted interest from Manchester United, who have refused to sign Ederson from Atalanta to focus on the Roma star.

According to Corriere dello Sport, however, the Giallorossi won’t let the central midfielder leave for less than €55m.

Argentine winger Soulè is another target of Premier League clubs, and, according to Corriere dello Sport, his agent, Martin Guastadisegno, has travelled to England to meet with executives at Sunderland and Fulham.

Roma value Soulè at €35m. The ex-Juventus talent has an amortised cost of €15.5m in the Roma balance sheet, so a sale for €35m would allow the Giallorossi to make a capital gain of circa €20m.

Inter hoped to announce Anan Khalaili’s transfer on Friday, but according to Italian sources, including Gazzetta, the 21-year-old must undergo further medical tests, which are expected to be completed by Tuesday next week.

Israel international Khalaili requires further medical checks before completing a permanent transfer to Inter from Union Saint-Gilloise.

Khalaili needs more Inter medical tests

The 21-year-old arrived in Milan on Friday to undergo medical examinations and sign his contract with the defending Serie A champions.

However, according to reports in Italy, including Gazzetta and Corriere dello Sport, the defender was not allowed to complete his move to Inter yesterday because the Institute of Sports Medicine of CONI demanded further, specific medical examinations to be carried out on Monday and Tuesday.

Therefore, until that day, the Nerazzurri won’t be allowed to confirm the purchase of the 21-year-old.

The Serie A giants have an agreement with Union SG for a €25m deal plus add-ons.

The Nerazzurri need a new starter in the right wing-back position following Denzel Dumfries’ move to Real Madrid for €20m.

Marco Palestra was their main target, but the Italy international eventually joined Chelsea instead.

According to Il Corriere dello Sport, Juventus have ‘booked’ Parma’s Mateo Pellegrino as talks with PSG for Randal Kolo Muani are stalling, with the Ligue 1 giants demanding €55m.

Juventus risk missing out on PSG forward Kolo Muani, as the French club’s asking price appears unaffordable for the Bianconeri.

Juventus turn to Pellegrino

According to Corriere dello Sport, the Ligue 1 giants have further increased their demands for the French striker to €55m, while Juventus’ latest offer was only worth €35m.

Therefore, Juventus have reportedly asked Parma to block any potential transfer for Argentine striker Pellegrino, who is valued at €30m and can leave the Stadio Tardini on loan with an obligation to buy.

According to the report, Juventus want to continue talks with PSG over the next 10 days, until Pellegrino’s agents arrive in Italy to discuss the striker’s future.

If, by then, Juve and PSG have reached no agreement, then the Bianconeri will focus on the Parma centre-forward.

Corriere dello Sport confirms that Luciano Spalletti has demanded two strikers and that neither Lois Openda nor Jonathan David is part of his plans.

The Bianconeri remain interested in Alexander Sorloth as well, while Atletico Madrid want to bring Nico Gonzalez back to the Wanda Metropolitano this summer.

Reports in Italy claim that Roma are ready to send a €30m offer for Strasbourg winger Diego Moreira, but the French club’s demands are much higher.

Roma are ready to send a €30m bid for Belgian winger Moreira, according to Sky Sport Italia and Sport Mediaset. Both sources claim that Roma’s proposal includes a 10% sell-on clause.

Roma set to send offer for Moreira

Roma are looking for attacking reinforcements for 2026-27, but their main target, Mason Greenwood, is set to join Fenerbahce from Marseille, prompting the Giallorossi to look to Moreira.

According to Sky, however, reaching an agreement with Strasbourg won’t be straightforward, given that the French club’s asking price is €50m.

Sky adds that the player’s agent, Jorge Mendes, is working to find an appropriate transfer formula that could convince Strasbourg to sell the player.

A former Chelsea winger, Moreira joined Strasbourg from the Blues in 2024, and the Premier League side holds a buy-back option, which also allows them to match any offer Strasbourg receive.

Moreira was part of the Belgian squad at the 2026 World Cup.

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.

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

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.

Multiple reports in Italy claim that Leicester City midfielder Harry Winks will return to Serie A, joining Cagliari for the 2026-27 season.

English midfielder Winks, 30, is set to join Serie A side Cagliari on a permanent deal from Leicester City.

Winks set for Cagliari move

Sky Sport Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio claims the two clubs have already reached an agreement, while Alfredo Pedullà, who first broke the news of negotiations two weeks ago, says the Sardinians are getting close to an agreement with the Foxes.

Cagliari have identified Winks as the replacement for Gianluca Gaetano, who was announced as a new Atalanta player earlier this week.

Winks already played in Serie A during the 2022-23 season, making 20 appearances for Sampdoria. The Englishman, a former Tottenham midfielder, has scored two goals in 150 Premier League appearances.

He’s been playing for Leicester City since 2023, but the Foxes were relegated to the English League One last season.

Cagliari, on the other hand, secured Serie A survival with one game to spare in 2025-26.

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Chivu can’t wait, it will be a different Inter

Sinner in the Wimbledon Final

The King is back

Always Merino, Spain ahead

The midfielder is introduced and scores again. La Roja in the semis against France on Tuesday.

Haaland and Kane, giants of goals; a Premier challenge.

Argentine chants for Messi (with Maradona) for the assault to Switzerland

Corriere dello Sport

Clásico Mundial

Like Real-Barça

Lamine beats Belgium 2-1, semi-final against Kylian

Mbappé meets Yamal again: France-Spain on Tuesday

Sinner dreams of the double

Kolo moves away

Juve, gap with PSG. Pellegrino booked

The French club wants €55m plus add-ons. Carnevali has offered €35m. Two alternatives: the Argentine of Parma and Sorloth of Atletico. Dibu Martinez is uphill; Aston Villa value him at €15m.

Inter pounce on Lucumi

Milan choose: Alajbegovic or Karetsas

Ibra likes the Bosnian, new contact with Leverkusen. The Greek on target, Genk starlet, Gila has signed until 2031.

Roma attraction: Dybala 5 arrives

Fifth season in the Friedkin club: one-year contract without options. From Monday on the pitch in Trigoria under Gasperini.

Napoli, Zeballos waits for the breakthrough

He already has a four-year agreement but is waiting for sales. Vergara’s renewal: on Monday, the meeting between the agent and DeLa.

Ederson deal off, Atalanta tricked

Deal collapsed: he won’t go to Man United. Giuntoli had an agreement for €45m.

Tuttosport

I want the grass

Juve again: Vlahovic believes

Dusan doesn’t empty his locker at Continassa: Massara in action with Carnevali to set the contract renewal talks on more sustainable bases. The director: ‘Brahim and Kessié are not within reach.’ Midfield: Palinha emerges. Ahead for Kolo and Dibu Martinez.

Abate: ‘Toro courage, nobody scares me and I’ll open the Fila.’

Spain, Merino is the man of destiny

Haaland vs. Kane in the night of hitmen

On Messi’s shoulders, Messi against Yakin the fox

In another unexpected twist, there are now reports Manchester United haven’t made a final decision yet on whether to buy Ederson from Atalanta following a medical.

The deal had been done on June 2 for €40.5m plus another €4.5m in add-ons.

It could not be completed because the player was in the United States with Brazil participating in the 2026 World Cup, so he only had initial medical tests there.

Ederson still unsure of future

The Premier League club wanted further medical tests to examine an issue, and after 48 hours of those scans, multiple sources today reported Manchester United had withdrawn from the deal.

Sky Sport Italia, Fabrizio Romano, Sportitalia and more all stated that Manchester United informed Atalanta they would not be going through with the transfer.

However, BBC Sport, Sky Sports Deutschland and others now suggest that a final decision has not yet been made.

The Italian media seemed confident that Ederson had no serious injury concern, instead assuming Manchester United had simply changed their minds in the last five weeks.

It is therefore possible that Manchester United simply want to renegotiate the terms of the deal, but Atalanta might not be willing to do that.

Italian media suggest Manchester United used the Ederson medical as an excuse to withdraw from the €45m Atalanta deal, so could now turn their focus to Roma’s France international Manu Kone instead.

Multiple sources reported this evening that Manchester United had informed Atalanta of their intention to abandon the transfer, which had been agreed back on June 2.

It would’ve been €40.5m fixed fee plus a further €4.5m in performance-related add-ons.

Manchester United saw Kone opportunity with Ederson

The two clubs agreed to wait until after Ederson had finished his participation at the 2026 World Cup with Brazil before completing the necessary medical tests, following an initial quick check-up in the United States.

However, as the weeks wore on, Manchester United started to get cold feet and requested more in-depth medical examinations.

After 48 hours of those scans, today the Premier League side informed Atalanta they would not be going ahead with the move.

According to the Italian media reporting of the situation, including Sportitalia, Atalanta are entirely confident there are no serious fitness issues for Ederson.

They believe it is no coincidence that Manchester United saw an opportunity to change their minds after the rumours of growing interest in Roma midfielder Manu Kone.

The two play very similar roles, so buying both for a total cost of around €100m would be excessive even for the Old Trafford side.

If they have withdrawn from the Ederson move, it is now far more likely that they will dive in with a proposal for Roma’s Kone.

He has seen his value and profile soar after performances for France at the 2026 World Cup, where he pushed Aurelien Tchaouameni out of the starting XI.

In a shocking twist, multiple sources report tonight that Manchester United have pulled out of their €45m deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson.

The agreement had been reached in June, with the club ready to pay €40.5m in guaranteed fees and an additional €4.5m in bonuses.

However, it was not finalised as the player was in the Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Ederson dropped by Manchester United

When they were eliminated, Manchester United requested that he undergo extra intensive medical tests before giving the all-clear.

Those were completed over the last 48 hours, but now Sky Sport Italia, Fabrizio Romano and more all claim Manchester United informed Atalanta they were pulling out of the transfer.

Atalanta are confident that this is not caused by the medical tests or any long-term injury, as they believe Manchester United simply changed their minds about the whole deal.

La Dea insist that if Ederson did have a serious injury, he would not have been part of the squad at the World Cup with Brazil.

His contract only runs to June 2028, so now it remains to be seen if he will be sold elsewhere or become part of the group under new coach Maurizio Sarri.

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.

The defender completed his transfer today for a reported fee of €25m plus €5m in add-ons, though half of that will go to his previous club Real Madrid as part of the arrangement made in 2022.

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

“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.”

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.”

 

Visualizza questo post su Instagram

 

Un post condiviso da AC Milan (@acmilan)

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.

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.

He stated that the Premier League and LaLiga might be more suited to his style of football, but getting clubs ready to pay even the reduced asking price of €60m is proving very difficult indeed.

Truth about Tottenham and Leao

There have been suggestions that Tottenham Hotspur are interested, but transfer pundit Romano claims on his YouTube channel that this is the wrong way round.

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.

Roma will push Chelsea for Alejandro Garnacho, who is good friends with Paulo Dybala, but there are different reports on whether it could be a loan or permanent buy.

Garnacho had already been very close to Serie A football last year when in advanced negotiations with Napoli, but ultimately preferred to make the move from Manchester United to Chelsea for €46.2m.

His career stalled at Stamford Bridge with eight goals and four assists in 43 competitive appearances, though only 22 of those were in the starting XI.

Garnacho back on Serie A radar

Multiple sources are confident that Chelsea have put him on the market this summer and do not see him as part of their future plans.

The issue now is the formula, as Fabrizio Romano reports that Chelsea would only be ready to sell Garnacho on a permanent deal, so not on loan with an option to buy.

He insists that Roma are not prepared to accept those terms at those costs.

Sportitalia transfer pundit Alfredo Pedullà instead maintains that the Giallorossi are prepared to use the €40m that were set aside for Olympique Marseille winger Mason Greenwood, instead putting that to the purchase of the Argentine.

Garnacho only turned 22 last week and is also still on the Napoli radar, although their finances do not stretch to a permanent buy.

Where Roma might have an advantage, according to Pedullà, is that the player is good friends with Roma star Dybala, who has just agreed a new contract at the Stadio Olimpico.

Mario Gila has officially completed his transfer to Milan, leaving Lazio for €25m plus €5m add-ons, though 50 per cent of that goes to his former club Real Madrid.

The defender is a product of the Real Madrid youth academy and was sold to Lazio for just €6m in the summer of 2022.

As part of that arrangement, the Merengues retained a 50 per cent cut of the future sale fee, which is now coming back to them.

New Serie A adventure for Gila

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.

Strengthening the wall pic.twitter.com/dQwFChlVTs

— AC Milan (@acmilan) July 10, 2026

His salary at San Siro is believed to be worth €5m per season net and he will wear the Number 34 jersey.

Gila’s contract with Lazio was running down at the end of this season, so a departure was inevitable after 120 competitive appearances for the club.

The centre-back flew in last night and underwent all his medical tests in Milan today.

Italian referee Maurizio Mariani is the favourite to officiate the 2026 World Cup Final, although pundit Mark Clattenburg claims the decision ‘would upset a lot of people.’

The Azzurri failed to qualify for the tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico, but did send a team of officials led by Mariani.

Speaking on the Daily Mail’s Whistleblowers podcast, Premier League refereeing expert Clattenburg claimed that the biggest job in world football will likely go to Mariani.

Mariani expected for 2026 World Cup Final

The 44-year-old already officiated the 2025-26 edition of the Conference League Final between Crystal Palace and Rayo Vallecano, as well as the 2025 Under-20 World Cup Final that saw Morocco beat Argentina.

In this World Cup, Mariani was wielding the whistle for Saudi Arabia’s draw with Uruguay, Colombia’s victory over DR Congo, and most notably Brazil beating Japan in the Round of 32.

However, Clattenburg insists it would be a controversial choice because Italians have already officiated three World Cup Finals since 1978.

Italians are highly critical of their own referees, yet they are still considered the best in the business, as seen by Pierluigi Collina’s role as the chair of FIFA’s referees committee, and Roberto Rosetti having the UEFA equivalent position.

“I am hearing again that it could be an Italian referee,” said Clattenburg on the podcast.

“Infantino’s Italian, Collina’s Italian. Most of the power in the refereeing and wider football world is Italian.”

This is not true, because FIFA President Gianni Infantino is from Switzerland, although his parents did have Italian origins.

“FIFA needs to keep everybody happy, all of the six confederations, and if you look at it, in 2010 the referee was English, in 2014 Italian, in 2018 Argentinian and in 2022 Polish. If we go Italian again, are we saying there’s no other referees but Italian?” added Clattenburg.

“If this year an Italian referee gets the chance again, bearing in mind what’s happened with FIFA at this tournament, it would be a big shock to me.”

The other issue of course is that the referees in the final stages cannot be from any of the countries in the running for the trophy, so as Italy failed to qualify, it would make them the logical choice for the Final.

“It would upset a lot of people if we had another Italian referee,” added Clattenburg, who refereed the EURO 2016 Final.

“I am not saying an Italian doesn’t deserve it, but there’s an awful lot of talented referees that could referee that match.”

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.

The versatile winger will turn 19 in September and is fresh off a sensational season at RB Salzburg.

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

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 and Roma have also shown an interest within Serie A, along with Napoli, while Newcastle United, Sunderland and Real Betis are among the other sides keeping an eye on the situation.

Juventus and Turkiye star Kenan Yildiz is still struggling with a chronic tendon condition and could require surgery, claim reports in Italy.

The forward is the figure around whom the Bianconeri intend to build their squad, having given him a lucrative new contract and the iconic Number 10 jersey.

However, his performances in recent months have been visibly below par due to a recurring injury problem that has still not been resolved.

Kenan Yildiz struggling with knee issue

According to Tuttosport, this has become a chronic tendonitis that becomes inflamed every time he tries to step up the physical strain on the knee.

Playing for Turkiye at the World Cup further exacerbated the problem, where he played with the aid of heavy strapping and painkillers, and it remains to be seen if conservative treatment can fully resolve the issue.

If it isn’t, then Juventus and the player could decide to opt for surgery in the summer to clean up the tendon and then begin the rehabilitation process.

Yildiz is currently resting after the tournament and is expected back in Turin for pre-season training from July 20.

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 already spoke to reporters just a few days ago, before Ruben Amorim’s unveiling press conference, but he’s now provided more insight into the new Milan era in a fresh interview with Calcio&Finanza.

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.

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.

Horacio Elizondo, the referee of the 2006 World Cup Final, reveals Zinedine Zidane reassured him that the red card was correct but also asked: ‘Didn’t you see what happened before?’

July 9 2026, marked the 20th anniversary of Italy’s World Cup victory.

The Azzurri famously beat France on penalties in the final, with Zidane sent off just ten minutes before the penalty shootout for headbutting Materazzi.

Argentine official Elizondo, the referee of that match, described the moments that led to that decision and what Zidane told him before leaving the pitch.

That was also Zidane’s final game as a footballer, making his red card incident even more legendary.

“I saw Materazzi didn’t get up, so I stopped the play and started running towards him,” Elizondo told Gazzetta.

“While I was running, I asked the first assistant: ‘What happened?’ He said: ‘I didn’t see anything.’ Same for the second assistant. We didn’t know what had happened.

“At that moment, Medina Cantalejo, the fourth official, told me: Zidane headbutted Materazzi. In all this, I thought: These guys didn’t see anything, the same goes for the crowd, from TV I don’t know. The fourth official says it’s a red card, so I’ll give a red card, but I need to do something to help the world understand.”

What Zidane told referee after red card in 2006 World Cup final

Elizondo feared that the crowd in the stadium would not understand why he showed red to Zidane, so he pretended to discuss the matter with one of his assistants.

“I started talking to the assistant, pretending that he knew something. I wanted to make this ‘acting’ to make people understand [we were making a decision]. I told him: ‘Ten minutes to go, remain focused.’ Then I turned and gave the red card to Zidane,” Elizondo said.

“I was curious to see Zidane’s reaction and whether he would defend his position. When he saw me running with my hand in the back pocket, he started taking his captain’s armband off.

“So I thought, okay, it’s done, and I started to relax a bit. When I was about to write his name on the sheet, he touched my shoulder and said: ‘Calm, the red card is correct, but didn’t you hear or see what happened before?’ I said: ‘No, what happened?’ But he just turned his back and went out.”

Italy has not played a World Cup knockout game since 2014, having been eliminated in the group stages in 2010 and 2014, and failing to qualify altogether in 2018, 2022, and 2026.

Ruben Amorim officially began his reign as Milan head coach earlier this week, addressing the media for the first time alongside club owner Gerry Cardinale.

Click here to subscribe to the official Football Italia YouTube channel

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.

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.

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.

Watch the full episode below.

Anan Khalaili has been spotted at the airport in Milan on Friday, having flown to Italy to complete the final details of his potential €30m transfer to Inter. 

Khalaili in Italy to complete Inter transfer

Reports on Thursday claimed that Inter had struck an agreement with Union Saint-Gilloise to sign right-winger Khalaili for a guaranteed fee of €25m, plus bonuses that could take the total cost up to the €30m mark. 

The Nerazzurri had initially seen bids of €20m plus bonuses and then €23m plus bonuses turned down by the Belgian side. 

However, an agreement has now been reached at €25m in guaranteed fees, plus bonuses and a 15% sell-on clause in favour of Union SG.

Khalaili has since been filmed arriving in Milan, and the Israel international is now expected to complete his medical tests and to sign his contract at the Inter headquarters in the city by the end of Friday. 

Khalaili è arrivato a Milano: oggi le visite mediche e poi la firma con l’@Inter pic.twitter.com/i2HoebBZXR

— Gianluca Di Marzio (@DiMarzio) July 10, 2026

Khalaili looks set to be the replacement for Denzel Dumfries, who has left Inter after five successful seasons to join Real Madrid. The Nerazzurri had initially targeted a move for Italy international Marco Palestra, who has since joined Chelsea in a big-money move. 

Khalaili was next on Inter’s list, and despite the fact that he had been of interest to Napoli earlier this window, his next destination will be San Siro.

Reports in the UK claim that Roma’s Manu Kone has emerged as a ‘serious’ option for Manchester United this summer, despite the fact that they have already secured deals for two new midfielders in Atalanta’s Ederson and Chelsea’s Andrey Santos. 

Kone on Manchester Untied’s list of midfield options

The Premier League side seem desperate to add to their midfield department this summer and according to reports from TeamTalk, are looking to provide head coach Michael Carrick with a third new midfielder during the off-season. 

United have already secured a €58.5m (£50m) deal for Chelsea’s Santos, and Ederson is currently having further medical tests with club doctors in the UK ahead of a potential €45m move from Atalanta. 

According to reports from Graeme Bailey of TeamTalk, United still have the budget to add a third new midfielder to their ranks this summer and Roma’s Kone has emerged as a ‘serious’ option. 

Kone is among the players to have been linked with a move away from Roma this summer given that the Giallorossi are still working under the restrictions of a financial fair play settlement agreement with UEFA. 

Reports in Italy during the off-season have linked the France international with a big-money move away from the Stadio Olimpico, including to Premier League champions Arsenal. A price tag of €50m has been rumoured in Italy, although TeamTalk suggests that after a prominent role with the France national team at the 2026 World Cup, this could now be more like €58.5m (£50m).

Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti thought the Bianconeri would sign a new centre-forward and a new goalkeeper by the start of the pre-season, but talks for Randal Kolo Muani and Emiliano Martinez are stalling.

Juventus have not progressed in negotiations for PSG forward Kolo Muani and Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

Juventus transfers: latest updates on Kolo Muani and Dibu Martinez as Spalletti waits

According to Gazzetta, the time required to complete the transfers has surprised Spalletti, who expected to welcome a new striker and a new goalkeeper by the start of the pre-season on July 13.

Juventus are struggling to reach an agreement with both PSG and Aston Villa, so most likely, Jeff Ekhator will be the only new Bianconeri summer signing to begin pre-season training with the team next week.

Gazzetta reports that Juventus don’t want to spend more than €6m/7m for Martinez, who is currently on Argentina international duty at the World Cup.

At the same time, PSG have raised their demands for Kolo Muani, asking for circa €50m, while Juventus don’t want to spend more than €40m for a loan deal with an obligation to buy.

Kolo Muani has long been Spalletti’s top target for the Juventus attack, but it remains uncertain whether the Italian tactician will work with the French forward anytime soon.

Inter have secured a deal to sign Anan Khalaili from Union Saint-Gilloise, so now their next priority is Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah, who, according to Gazzetta dello Sport, has rejected an offer from Crystal Palace as he’s keen to move to San Siro.

Inter will push to sign Chelsea defender Chalobah in the coming weeks, as the defending Serie A champions look for reinforcements at the back after the departures of Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij as free agents.

Gazzetta: Chalobah wants Inter move, snubs Crystal Palace

Chelsea’s Chalobah is their main target and talks with the player’s camp have been ongoing for weeks. Personal terms are not expected to be an issue, yet Inter have not reached an agreement with Chelsea.

According to Gazzetta, the Blues’ asking price is €40m, while other sources, including Sky Sport, have said the Premier League giants set their demands at €35m.

According to Gazzetta, Chelsea have tried to include Chalobah in a player-plus-cash swap deal with Crystal Palace for Maxence Lacroix, but Chalobah has rejected the chance to move to South London as he only wants to join Inter this summer.

Como have already had two bids rejected by Chelsea, and the Azzurri’s President, Mirwan Suwarso, reportedly reached out to Beppe Marotta earlier this week to say he would not engage in bidding wars with the Nerazzurri.

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.

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

— Gianluca Di Marzio (@DiMarzio) July 10, 2026

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.

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.

Brazilian legend Romario hits out at Carlo Ancelotti following Brazil’s World Cup elimination, even arguing that the Italian tactician ‘should be taken to court.’

Brazilians are still outraged by their national team’s World Cup exit at the hands of Norway.

The Seleçao was knocked out in the Round of 16 for the first time since Italia 90, and Ancelotti’s playing style hasn’t pleased many in the country, including former striker Romário.

Romario: Brazil should sack Ancelotti

“He [Ancelotti] cannot remain Brazil’s head coach,” Romario said via Sky Sport Italia.

“If I had been in charge of the federation, I would have walked into the dressing room, told him to go to hell and torn up his contract on the spot. The match against Norway was a disgrace. I’d even take him to court. Then we’ll see what happens, but he cannot stay.

“I couldn’t even understand what he was trying to do on the pitch,” Romario continued.

“He replaced Bruno Guimaraes and put Ederson wide. He did that because he hadn’t called up any other full-back. One full-back (Wesley) got injured, and he replaced him with a central midfielder. I know there aren’t many options, but surely there’s someone better than Ederson in that position.

“We had Dunga. He lost, and he left. We had Luiz Felipe Scolari; he won the World Cup, so he stayed. We had Tite. He lost, he stayed, and then he lost again,” Romario concluded.

“Now we have this damned Ancelotti, who has lost and will keep on losing. He made a lot of mistakes at this World Cup, and none of you in the media are saying a word. If he were a Brazilian coach, you would have torn him apart by now. But because he’s a foreigner, nobody says anything.”

Gazzetta dello Sport

Mbappé Messi-style

He missed a penalty and then invented the 8th magic, like Leo. Marocco beaten, Dembélé scores too. Today, Yamal guides Spain against Belgium.

Beat of a wing: Inter choose Khalaili

First signing of the champions after the Palestra disappointment. Dumfries’ replacement signed: a 25m deal, now all-in on Chalobah.

Corriere dello Sport

Mbappé like Messi. Yamal, there’s big Rom.

Dumfries’ replacement

The first is Khalaili

A new starter for Inter: 25m to Union SG

An Israeli to play for the Nerazzurri for the first time: Five-year contract

He’s 21, six goals and six assists in the last season. Medical tests today. 2.2m salary. Now the priority is Chalobah: meeting with Chelsea.

Grosso: ‘Atta is a big coup.’

Pellegrino, Juventus pave the way

Contacts with Parma for the Argentine. A new meeting with PSG and Aston Villa for Muani and Martinez

Napoli, Anguissa starts the pre-season

He has one year left in his contract and the coach likes him. Talks are ongoing with Hull City for Milinkovic. Falcone on target, Zeballos booked, the agent in tow.

Tuttosport

Juve, Matic offered for now

Carnevali proposes to Spalletti the 37-year-old from Sassuolo

The experienced Serbian midfielder, ex-United, intrigues as a backup, but the coach expects something different, starting with the attack. Yildiz will start slowly to manage his knee; surgery is not ruled out.

Fantastique

Mbappé-Dembélé, France in the semis

Inter: Khalaili, now Chalobah

25m to Union for the Israeli winger. Medical tests today. The Chelsea centre-back is the next target

Jakic breaks for Torino

Atta too! Viola dreams

Paratici unleashed, many teams of Europe’s top sides beaten for 25m. Grosso: ‘Great coup.’

Romario goes off track: ‘Kick Ancelotti out!’

Malagò: ‘Italy technical director, possible surprise.’

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.

Click here to subscribe to the official Football Italia YouTube channel

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.

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.

Multiple sources confirm Atalanta midfielder Ederson had the first day of intensive medical tests with Manchester United today and will complete them on Friday for €45m.

The deal had already been done last month, with Manchester United agreeing to pay €40.5m in fixed fees plus an additional €4.5m in bonuses.

Ederson question mark for Atalanta and Manchester United

That was pending a medical, which could not be fully dealt with before now because he was participating in the 2026 World Cup with Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil.

They had an initial test in America at the Brazil camp, but the doctors warned further follow-up tests were required.

Sky Sport Italia and Fabrizio Romano both confirm this evening that Ederson underwent the first tranche of tests with Manchester United staff today.

There will be another run of examinations on Friday July 10, at which point Manchester United will decide whether or not to go ahead with the transfer.

Atalanta are confident that there are no significant issues, because otherwise he would’ve been sent home from the Brazil camp at the World Cup.

Roma are keeping a close eye on the Alejandro Garnacho situation at Chelsea, with reports he could be allowed to leave on loan or on a permanent transfer.

The Giallorossi continue to seek exciting attacking wingers to complete their trident in coach Gian Piero Gasperini’s vision, and represent more of a draw now they have qualified for the Champions League after a seven-year absence.

While first choice Mason Greenwood of Olympique Marseille now seems beyond them, Roma are turning towards unsettled talent Garnacho.

Garnacho among Roma ideas

According to Sportitalia transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà, the 22-year-old is back on the table for the Serie A side, after he was close to Napoli last summer.

The Argentina international was a huge €46.2m investment for Chelsea from Manchester United in August 2025, but has struggled for regular playing time.

Now it remains to be seen whether Chelsea want to simply loan Garnacho out to help his development, or consider a genuine sale.

It is possible Roma could provide both with a loan and option to buy at the end of the season arrangement.

English reports from Graeme Bailey of TEAMtalk claimed that the asking price for a sale would be around €72m, which is clearly not going to be part of the Roma budget.

There continue to be conflicting reports on the state of talks between Juventus and Aston Villa for Emiliano Martinez, as some say €7m could suffice, others that it will require far more.

It is no secret that the Bianconeri have targeted the goalkeeper, who is currently preparing for the World Cup quarter-final between Argentina and Switzerland.

Martinez wants Juventus, but Aston Villa hold firm

The player would also seem more than happy to accept a transfer to Turin, as he is set to turn 34 in September and has been at Aston Villa since 2020 when making the €17.4m move from Arsenal.

He had a meeting with the Juve directors and was more than impressed with their proposal, both in terms of wages and the general project.

Sky Sport Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio claims that the initial €15m asking price has dropped to €6-7m.

However, Fabrizio Romano insists on his YouTube channel that the Premier League club is not going to drop that low for a player of his calibre.

If that were to be the offer on the table, then he maintains Villa would prefer to just keep Martinez, as after all his contract does run to June 2029.

Romano also reiterates the same reporting seen elsewhere, which is that if Martinez were to leave, then Aston Villa would push for Parma and Japan international goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, also a target for Leeds United.

Fiorentina are moving fast, as Arthur Atta underwent his medicals today for a €40m move from Udinese, but Schalke 04 target Robin Gosens was frozen out and is digging his heels in.

The Viola are already beginning pre-season preparations at their Viola Park complex and today new coach Fabio Grosso held his presentation press conference.

Atta arrives for Fiorentina, but Gosens pushed out

It had already been reported that a lightning fast deal was struck with Udinese for midfielder Atta, arriving for €25-30m, but leaving Udinese a 30 per cent cut of his future sale fee.

That means they expect the ultimate valuation for the player to be €40m.

Within hours, Atta was pictured arriving at the Fiorentina camp for his medical tests.

He is set to sign a four-year contract with wages worth around €1.3m per season.

Meanwhile, Sportitalia and Sky Sport Italia both report that Gosens has been informed he is not part of the Fiorentina project, so will not even participate in pre-season training.

It is their attempt to freeze him out and force a transfer to get his wages off the books before his contract expires in June 2028.

They are so determined that Bild claim he could be sold for a nominal fee of just €1m.

Schalke 04 are known to be interested, but Sky Sport Italia warn that getting Gosens to agree to the move might be difficult, as he feels let down by the Viola.

It isn’t entirely a new issue, as Gosens had been on the verge of a move to Nottingham Forest in January when he pumped the brakes.

Anan Khalaili’s father reveals Cristian Chivu ‘took the initiative’ to secure a deal with Inter, after ‘Ipswich Town offered €30m, but Napoli were a long way’ from satisfying Union Saint-Gilloise.

The Israel international seems all set to take his place on the right side of the Inter midfield, replacing Real Madrid bound Denzel Dumfries, after intensive negotiations.

Multiple sources this afternoon report that the deal is done for €25m plus add-ons to reach the €30m asking price, including a 15 per cent cut of the sell on fee to his first club Maccabi Haifa.

Father Madji Khalaili, who himself was a professional football player, spoke to 103FM about the entire situation.

Khalaili all set for Inter medical

“I said that I wouldn’t talk until it was all decided. Well, he will sign and the day after tomorrow fly from Brussels to Milan in a private plane they put at his disposal,” said the player’s father.

“What we experienced over the last two or three weeks has been surreal. Yet I’ve never seen someone so calm. I called him after the negotiations were finalised and he was asleep. I told him it was all done and he just replied: ‘Really? Wow.’ That’s what my son is like.”

There had been reports weeks ago that Napoli had agreed personal terms, but not with Union Saint-Gilloise, while the father confirmed there were numerous other clubs involved.

“We received requests from Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, Ipswich Town who made an offer worth €30m, as well as Cagliari, Atalanta and Napoli.

“It’s true that the first formal offer came from Napoli, but it was a long way off satisfying the requests in Belgium.”

Khalaili was convinced that Inter was the right club for him after speaking directly with coach Chivu.

“We had a terrible week, Anan almost missed some training sessions, and the negotiations were so close to collapsing. Cristian Chivu took the initiative by calling personally from Miami, telling him he would be the first choice for that role.

“What convinced Inter to really go for him were his Champions League statistics. I am convinced this won’t be the final big move of his career, his strength and aggressive play are what got him to this point.”

Khalaili turns 22 in September and Union Saint-Gilloise had paid €6.5m to buy him from Maccabi Haifa in 2024.

Last season, he scored three goals in just eight Champions League appearances for the Belgian club.

Italian sources are confident Inter have a deal with Union Saint-Gilloise for Anan Khalaili worth €25m plus add-ons, including a bonus for Maccabi Haifa, and could have his medical this weekend.

The Nerazzurri dived onto the Israel international for the right wing to replace Real Madrid-bound Denzel Dumfries after missing out on first choice Marco Palestra to Chelsea.

Negotiations had been tricky and there were two previous proposals rejected by Union Saint-Gilloise, worth €20m plus add-ons, then €23m.

Khalaili to Inter gets over the line

However, Sportitalia, Tuttomercatoweb, Sky Sport Italia and Fabrizio Romano now believe an agreement has been reached worth €25m plus add-ons to reach the €30m asking price.

Above all, it includes a 15 per cent cut of the future sale fee for his previous club Maccabi Haifa, who had sold him to the Belgians in 2024 for €6.5m.

The right-back turns 22 in September and last season he was a key figure for USG, contributing six goals and six assists in 42 competitive games.

Italian reports believe Khalaili will be in Milan for his medical tests either tomorrow or Saturday.

Napoli had been close to an agreement earlier in the summer, but could not progress until first making sales, while Como also showed interest.

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.

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

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.

However, The Athletic and Calciomercato both cite sources reassuring that Pulisic is likely to be out of action for three to six weeks.

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.

Serie A is set for a notable refereeing change in 2026/27, with VAR to be used to correct wrongly awarded corners.

Each national federation can decide whether to adopt the measure, and Italy’s top flight will do so, while Serie B and C are still weighing it up, partly due to having fewer cameras available.

According to the Corriere dello Sport, Referees will be able to overturn a corner given in error, provided the review causes no disruption to the game in progress.

VAR to review second yellow cards in Serie A

A second, more significant change is also coming: VAR will be able to review second yellow cards that have been shown, though not ones that were missed.

Unlike the corner protocol, this is an IFAB directive and mandatory for all competitions. It follows a string of controversies last season, most notably the Kalulu-Bastoni incident, where the resulting dismissal would have been overturned after an on-field review had the measure already been in place.

Italian officiating is also moving towards a more UEFA-style approach elsewhere: covering the mouth during a dispute with an opponent will not bring an automatic red, with a yellow deemed sufficient, and the same leniency will apply to players who briefly leave the pitch in protest.

FIGC President Giovanni Malagò has been spotted playing five-a-side with Roberto Mancini, who remains in the running for the Italy national team head coach role, but the head of the Italian FA still wants to appoint a technical director first, and claims that there could be a ‘surprise’ candidate on the cards. 

Malago plays five-a-side with Mancini and comments on Italy’s potential technical director

It is set to be a crucial few days for the future of the Italy national team set-up. Malagò has claimed that ‘this is the week for the technical director’ and has promised that there will be developments over the weekend. 

Italy are still without a head coach or a technical director following the departure of Gennaro Gattuso earlier this year. Delegation chief Gianluigi Buffon followed him and former FIGC President Gabriele Gravina out the door immediately after the World Cup play-off final defeat against Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

Mancini and Antonio Conte are the two frontrunners to replace Gattuso as head coach of the Italy national team and Paolo Maldini has been widely linked with the offer to take over as technical director. 

Maldini has not yet come to a definitive decision, but Malagò insists that it is only a matter of time before an appointment is made. He claims that there could still be a ‘surprise’ option on the cards, though. 

“This is the week for the technical director, I won’t change my stance on that. It’s Thursday and I hope to calm the nerves over the weekend, I’m working hard. There could also be a surprise,” said Malagò (via TMW).

Meanwhile, as per La Repubblica, Malagò has been out playing five-a-side football with Mancini at the Coppa dei Canottieri tournament, an event that Malagò claims to have taken part in for the last 50 years. 

Curiously, Malagò was on a team with Mancini, although this does not mean that he is the nailed-on favourite, as the Lega Serie A is said to prefer the idea of appointing Conte as Italy head coach.

Fabio Grosso is well aware that Fiorentina ‘want to rebuild’ after a difficult campaign and make a team that is ‘competitive and lasting’ with new stars in a 4-3-3 formation.

It was remarkable timing for the Viola to organise this presentation press conference, on the 20^th anniversary of Grosso converting the decisive penalty in the 2006 World Cup Final against France.

He has gone on to make a strong career for himself as a coach, most recently at Sassuolo, and signed a contract with Fiorentina to June 2028 plus an option to extend for another year.

Grosso begins new Fiorentina adventure

“I want to thank Fiorentina for this opportunity. It is an historic club and being here makes me very proud,” said Grosso. “I also thank Sassuolo for two wonderful years.

“You asked me about 2006, well the years go by, but what we did will remain in history and we can only be proud about that. I do a different job now, I know my responsibilities, we’ll do everything to achieve something good here too.”

Fiorentina had a disastrous campaign that saw them escape from the relegation zone in only the final weeks, so are eager to turn things around.

“I am aware of what has been asked of me. The club wants to rebuild something wonderful, and I keep that in mind. We’re trying to put the pieces in place to help rebuild a Fiorentina side that is competitive and lasting.

“Obviously, the dream in everyone’s mind is to win a trophy. I feel the hunger and ambition to keep raising the bar, so that is our objective. We want to make Fiorentina a protagonist of this league, and thinking about where we want to go can make the path seem clearer, but we also know that we need action more than words right now.”

Grosso traditionally likes to play with a 4-3-3 formation, whereas Fiorentina have varied between different systems in recent years, so does he have a clear idea of how he wants to set them up?

“I always liked to have a team with courage and an attacking approach. The idea is to play 4-3-3, it’s what I’ve always done, and I want to continue doing it, although clearly there are some situations that could warrant adjustments.”

Fiorentina secured several new signings over the last few days, including defender Radu Dragusin from Tottenham Hotspur, and only today Udinese midfielder Arthur Atta.

“I have to compliment director Fabio Paratici. Atta is a very strong player with great potential, I imagine him on the left side of a three-man midfield,” continued Grosso.

“I trust the director in his choices. Viery is young with a lot of potential, I want to get to know him and understand his characteristics. We know Dragusin better, he is coming from a top club and is an important signing.”

There are some already in the Fiorentina squad who are familiar faces for Grosso thanks to his time as coach of the Juventus youth team.

“We brought Moise Kean into the youth side earlier than expected, he always had this ambition to become a world class player. I can’t wait to speak with him again, he is an important player in this squad for me.

“The same goes for Nicolò Fagioli, he too has great quality and can improve so much in the build-up play.”

There are others who perhaps don’t quite fit into the 4-3-3 vision, such as Albert Gudmundsson.

“Freedom of movement in football is important, and characteristics affect the way you play. I want to speak to Albert and see how he feels about things. I want players in my squad who are ready to work hard.

“He’s not a winger, but not a striker either, and I don’t see him in midfield, especially with the arrival of Atta. When working with him in training, I might get a better idea of his strengths and weaknesses,” added Grosso.

Several Italian stars have already completed high-profile transfers this summer, while the futures of many more remain up in the air. Football Italia discuss Italy players’ potential transfer moves this summer: should they stay at their clubs or move on?

Click here to subscribe to the official Football Italia YouTube channel.

As Italian football enters another important period of rebuilding ahead of the next major international tournaments, every transfer decision could have a significant impact on both club and country.

Kean, Scamacca and more: What should Italy players do in the summer market?

In this episode, Lorenzo Bettoni and Wayne Girard take a closer look at some of Italy’s most valuable players and debate whether they should stay at their current clubs or seek a move elsewhere.

From established stars to rising talents, they weigh up each player’s situation, discuss the best career path, and examine how those decisions could shape the future of the Azzurri.

Thursday’s reports claim that Juventus are open to the idea of welcoming Dusan Vlahovic back to the club after the expiry of his contract on June 30, but only on the conditions laid out by the club’s new CEO Giovanni Carnevali. 

Vlahovic open to Juventus return and vice-versa, but only on certain conditions

Vlahovic is currently a free agent after seeing his contract with Juventus expire at the end of June. 

The Bianconeri had tried for over a year to get the Serbia international to commit to a new deal, but they were ultimately unsuccessful under the reign of former CEO Damien Comolli. 

During the final year of his Juventus contract, Vlahovic was the highest-paid player in Serie A with a net salary of around €12m. The Old Lady were always aware of the fact that they would need to convince the striker into taking a pay cut if a renewal were to go ahead. 

Despite months of back and forth, an agreement was never reached and Vlahovic is now available on a free transfer. 

However, despite previous links to the likes of Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Chelsea, Vlahovic has only had one concrete offer as things stand, and that is from Vincenzo Italiano’s Besiktas. Recent reports indicate that Vlahovic is unwilling to move to Turkey at this stage of his career, though. 

And so, Vlahovic is now opening up to the idea of going back to Juventus, and according to reports on Wednesday, he has personally called his former employers in Turin to discuss the possibility of a return. 

According to Thursday’s updates from Tuttosport, Juventus have also ‘left the door open’ for Vlahovic, but the club are adamant that if the striker is to return, it will be on the club’s terms. 

That means that Vlahovic would need to accept a significant cut in wages, potentially to a figure around €6m per season to bring him back in line with the club’s current highest earners, Kenan Yildiz and Jonathan David. Juventus are also unwilling to hand out any major bonuses or commission fees to Vlahovic’s father, who acts as his agent. 

Tuttosport writes that the Juventus management also want to see a change in attitude from Vlahovic, who has been accused of showing too much ‘bravado’ during his final year with the Bianconeri.

Roma appear to have missed out on the potential signing of Mason Greenwood from Olympique de Marseille, but reports in Italy claim that they are already beginning to shift their focus to a new alternative option in Nottingham Forest’s Dan Ndoye.

Could Roma turn to Ndoye after missing out on Greenwood?

For several weeks, Roma have been in negotiations over a potential deal for former Manchester United forward Greenwood, but were unable to strike an agreement with Marseille, who wanted €50m for the controversial Englishman. 

Despite reports of an agreement in principle on personal terms between Greenwood and the Giallorossi, Turkish giants Fenerbahce have stepped in and have blown the Serie A side out of the water with a rumoured salary offer of €8m-€10m per year.

According to Thursday’s reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma will now turn their attention to former Bologna winger Ndoye, who joined Nottingham Forest in a deal worth €40m plus bonuses last summer.

Ndoye struggled to cement his place as a guaranteed starter at the City Ground in 2025-26 and La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that Forest are open to letting the Switzerland international go after just 12 months. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport also claims that Forest’s valuation of Ndoye has ‘dropped’ in recent weeks as well. 

In the meantime, Roma have several pieces of ‘internal’ business to tidy up, including the contracts of Paulo Dybala, Zeki Celik and Lorenzo Pellegrini. The team will then report for pre-season training on Monday and from then, the club’s management are expected to ‘step up’ in their pursuit of new arrivals.

FIFA’s Chief Refereeing Officer Pierluigi Collina has defended the quality of the refereeing at the 2026 World Cup, insists that his officials are not influenced by any external factors or individuals and has explained why Egypt saw a goal ruled out in their 3-2 round of 16 loss against Argentina. 

The legendary Italian former referee, who has been serving as the chair of FIFA’s referee committee since 2017, has decided to release a public statement following complaints about the officiating at the 2026 World Cup. 

• Read more: 21 Serie A players left as 2026 World Cup moves into quarter-finals

There have been several high-profile incidents involving referees, red cards and accusations of external influence during the 2026 tournament in North America. 

The USA’s Folarin Balogun saw a red card controversially overturned after a direct phone call from President Donald Trump to FIFA President Gianni Infantino. 

There were also strong complaints from the Egypt camp about the state of the refereeing in their round of 16 loss against Argentina, including the decision to rule out a goal that would have sent them on their way to being three goals up in the second half. 

Collina, speaking in an interview released on the FIFA website, has defended his referees, says that ‘overall, we are happy’ insists that there is no external pressure on the officials and has explained why the decision to rule out the Egypt goal was correct. 

Collina explains FIFA’s stance on controversial refereeing calls

“Let’s start by saying that we have now played 50% more matches than at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and there are still eight more huge games to be played,” Colina began.

“Overall, we are happy. However, with such a high number of matches played in a relatively short period of time, it is normal that some things do not go as expected. When that happens, they are ready to work even harder to ensure they are fully prepared for the next match.

“Of course, constructive discussion about decisions will always be part of football, but unfounded allegations have no place in our sport. Nobody can question the integrity of the FIFA World Cup match officials. When this happens, it may provoke reactions that lead to threats against them and their families. This is not right.

“Equally, nobody can claim that FIFA Refereeing can be influenced by anyone, not even by the FIFA President [Gianni Infantino]. He has always shown his full support for FIFA Team One while trusting us to work with complete independence. Match officials make honest decisions and, just like players and coaches, they always try to do their best.”

Collina went on to speak specifically about the complaints from the Argentina vs. Egypt match. 

“Usually, during a competition, we prefer not to focus on specific incidents. However, as we recently clarified what match officials would be looking for when attacking players try to prevent the opposing goalkeeper from moving and being able to defend the goal, we also wanted to clarify another topic that has generated debate.

“After every goal is scored, the VAR checks the attacking possession phase (APP). If a foul is identified in the build-up and is deemed to have had an impact on the goal, the VAR will recommend an on-field review. There is no defined limit regarding either the distance from goal or the amount of time between the incident and the goal.

“An example of this came in the Argentina v Egypt game where Egypt No. 19 Marwan Attia clearly treads on the foot of Argentina No. 6 Lisandro Martínez.

“We believe that a foul is a foul. Regardless of whether the foul appears ‘obvious’, if the referee did not see it on the field of play, the VAR can intervene,” Collina confirmed. 

“Equally, if no foul is identified in the build-up to a goal, the VAR will advise the referee accordingly. Stepping on an opponent’s foot is a foul, whereas a defender who touches the ball first and then makes normal football contact has not committed a foul. Again, an example of this came at the end of the same game. The referee and the VAR deemed it normal football contact between Egypt No. 10 Mohamed Salah and Argentina No. 10 Julián Alvarez.

“Of course, there will always be an element of subjectivity in some decisions, but we are happy with how this principle has been applied throughout the tournament.”

La Gazzetta dello Sport 

Make us dream again 

20 years since the Azzurri triumph in Berlin 

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