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.

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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.

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.’

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)

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 says that Scott McTominay and Noa Lang will be the first players to return to Napoli training after the World Cup, while Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne will be back on August 5.

Allegri was unveiled as the new Napoli coach at an event in Naples on Tuesday morning.

The Italian tactician was asked his thoughts on Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, who had a tough 2025-26 campaign under Antonio Conte.

Allegri: ‘De Bruyne and Lukaku return on August 5’

“I learned from an old coach. Until I see and coach players, making judgments from outside is always very difficult,” Allegri replied, via TuttoNapoli.

“I’m taking it with me. Starting tomorrow, we’ll get to know each other. Values are important. They’ll arrive on August 5. McTominay and Lang will arrive before.

“We’ll leave with whoever is available to start the work.”

Napoli had five of their players at the World Cup: Mathias Olivera, McTominay, Lang, Lukaku and De Bruyne.

However, Olivera, McTominay and Lang were eliminated in the opening stages, while Lukaku and De Bruyne’s Belgium progressed until the quarter-finals.

Napoli will start the pre-season tomorrow, Wednesday, July 15.

The Partenopei finished second in 2025-26, but during Conte’s two-year spell, they won a Scudetto and a Supercoppa Italiana.

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

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)

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.

Sky Sport Italia reports that 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.

Elliot Stroud’s imminent move to Premier League side Hull City is likely to lead to a legal dispute between Genoa and the winger’s representatives.

Stroud’s transfer decision infuriates Genoa

According to Sky Sport Italia, Genoa had an agreement in place with Stroud and his club Mjällby, with the 24-year-old having already signed a pre-contract agreement with the Serie A side.

Stroud later made a surprise decision to join Hull City instead, with Genoa believing the move breached the pre-contract agreement he had already signed.

Hull City haven’t announced Stroud’s transfer yet.

The 24-year-old Sweden international scored seven goals and provided two assists in his last 15 appearances with his club.

He featured in the 2026 World Cup with the Swedish national team, making four appearances, two as a starter.

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

According to Tuttosport, ex-Tottenham loanee Palhinha has attracted interest from Juventus, who have also been offered Sassuolo’s Nemanja Matic.

Juventus have prioritised the purchase of a goalkeeper and a centre-forward but are also looking for reinforcements in central midfield.

Juventus’ potential midfield targets

According to Tuttosport, ex-Tottenham loanee Palinha is an option for the Bianconeri, who, however, have not yet made a move to sign the Portuguese from Bayern Munich.

The Serie A giants are not yet in talks for any potential reinforcement in the middle of the park and are keeping an eye on several targets.

According to Tuttosport, even Sassuolo midfielder Matic, a former Chelsea and Roma star, has been offered to the Bianconeri.

Giovanni Carnevali signed the experienced 37-year-old central midfielder at Sassuolo last summer, and Matic has the same agents as Emiliano Martinez, who is Juventus’ top target in goal.

Juventus failed to qualify for the Champions League in 2025-26 and will be playing in the Europa League in 2026-27.

• Read more – Report Juventus book Pellegrino as Kolo Muani talks stall

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

Serie A players have contributed to Norway’s World Cup quarter-final qualification, with Torbjorn Heggem featuring regularly in the starting lineup and Marcus Pedersen and Leo Ostigard both on the scoresheet.

Erling Haaland has deservedly made headlines as his Norway side has qualified for the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in history. The Manchester City striker has netted seven World Cup goals so far, just one fewer than Kylian Mbappé, who has already played in the quarter-finals, scoring one goal in a 2-0 win over Morocco.

Two Serie A goals for Norway at the 2026 World Cup

As Gazzetta highlights, however, Norway’s World Cup run has also been inspired by the performances of some Serie A players.

Four footballers from Italy’s top-flight, plus Morten Thorsby, who was relegated to Serie B with Cremonese last season, are part of the Norway team at the World Cup: Marcus Pedersen (Torino), Torbjorn Heggem (Bologna), Leo Ostigard (Genoa) and Kristian Thorstvedt (Sassuolo).

Bologna’s Heggem has started every match except against France and has received no yellow cards so far, despite playing as a centre-back. Torino right-back Pedersen scored against Senegal and has collected three appearances, two as a starter.

Thorstvedt has made two appearances as a substitute. Ostigard played four matches, one as a starter against France, and scored against Iraq on the debut game, becoming the first Serie A player to score a goal at the 2026 World Cup.

Thorsby was introduced as a substitute against France in the third group stage game.

Italy are fully aware of Norway’s strength, having lost to them twice in the qualifying group stage. Norway won all ten of their games, and by the time they met Italy in the final round, winning 4-1, their goal difference was already far superior to the Azzurri’s.

Torino director Gianluca Petrachi admits he’ll sit down with Ché Adams to discuss the striker’s future at the club, but the Granata are confident of retaining both Giovanni Simeone and Nikola Vlasic.

Torino unveiled their new coach, Ignazio Abate, at a press conference today, during which sporting director Petrachi provided some transfer updates.

One of the questions was on Scotland international Ché Adams, who has reportedly attracted interest from Wolves and Venezia.

“Currently, he’s on holiday, lucky him,” Petrachi said, smiling (via TMW).

Torino: Ché Adams had an offer to leave in January

“When he returns, we’ll talk and see what he wants to do. He received a request in January, and he made himself available to stay, but to talk about it again in the summer.”

Adams, 29, has less than a year left in his contract with Torino, where he has just completed his second season after a free transfer from Sunderland in 2024.

While Adam’s future in Turin is far from certain, Duvan Zapata has just signed a new contract, agreeing to a pay cut in exchange for a longer deal.

“He proved to be a silent leader; he doesn’t talk much, but he has an impact and says wise things,” Petrachi said.

“He’s spread his salary, making an important gesture. The Zapata we saw in January can give us a lot.”

Petrachi is confident that both Simeone and Vlasic will remain at Torino in 2026-27, even if the Argentine striker had previously pushed to join River Plate.

“There was a situation for which he wanted to return home, but there are moments when a footballer is tired and thinks about the family; everyone has weaknesses,” Petrachi explained.

“But we’ve made him understand that it’s not yet the time to return home. He has understood and is committed. Abate spoke to him for 30 minutes, and he resumed with grit.

“I also asked Vlasic to stay,” Petrachi concluded.

“He is a player worthy of Toro, I’m in love with him on footballing terms.”

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.

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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.

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.

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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.

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?

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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.

Dusan Vlahovic is reportedly willing to sit down with Juventus to negotiate a new contract after his previous deal expired last month, but should the Bianconeri bring him back?

Officially, ex-Juventus star Vlahovic is without a club as his contract in Turin expired this past June.

The Serbia international was linked with Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Bayern Munich, but none of these clubs has made a formal contract offer for the 26-year-old, prompting him, according to Tuttosport, to reconsider his future in Turin.

Juventus failed to match Vlahovic’s contract demands and signing bonus under Damien Comolli, while new CEO and General Manager Giovanni Carnevali didn’t resume contract talks with the Serbian.

“Personally, I have never spoken to Vlahovic. Anything is possible in football; there can be possibilities tomorrow that do not exist today,” Carnevali said at the end of June.

Should Juventus bring Vlahovic back?

“He is an important player, but today is not in our thoughts.”

According to Tuttosport, Vlahovic has remained in touch with some of his former teammates and has directly called Juventus to potentially negotiate a new contract, given that the only proposal he has received has come from his ex-Fiorentina coach, Vincenzo Italiano, at Besiktas.

No clubs from Europe’s top five leagues have progressed talks with the Serbia international, who remains the highest-valued free agent on the market.

Juventus are still struggling to reach an agreement with PSG for Randal Kolo Muani and, according to Sportitalia, have made initial contact with Parma about Matteo Pellegrino.

The Bianconeri are also waiting for offers for Lois Openda and Jonathan David, who are not part of Spalletti’s plans.

Vlahovic scored 68 goals in 168 matches with Juventus over the last four and a half years, but should the Bianconeri bring him back, or look for a fresh start?

Let us know in the poll below and in the comment section.

It’s been another busy day for Italian football with Juventus confirming Frederic Massara as their Chief Football Officer, as well as a new role within the club for Giorgio Chiellini.

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Another big news comes from Milan, where the Rossoneri met Mario Gila’s agent and then secured a deal with Lazio after agreeing to personal terms with the Spanish defender in recent weeks.

Elsewhere in Serie A, Inter are expected to send an improved offer for Liverpool’s Curtis Jones, while Nicolò Zaniolo has reached an agreement to extend his Udinese contract. Get today’s most relevant transfer updates in the video.

Football Italia Transfer Show July 7, 2026

Napoli have unveiled their new home kit for 2026-27, the Partenopei’s centenary season.

Napoli have dropped their new home kit for the new season. It will be an important one for Napoli, not just because it’s the first after the Antonio Conte era but also because it will mark the club’s 100th anniversary.

The Partenopei showed some of their stars, including Scott McTominay and Kevin De Bruyne, posing with their new kit on social media.

Napoli’s 2026-27 home kit

“A century of history and belonging captured in a garment designed to celebrate the club’s origins and, at the same time, look to the future,” Napoli said in a statement.

Our history. Our second skin.
19:26 pic.twitter.com/04gvI98h70

— Official SSC Napoli (@en_sscnapoli) July 6, 2026

“This is how SSC Napoli has chosen to describe its new jersey, which will be worn by the team throughout the entire season, with a hero video that combines places and identity. The jersey also features the image of a horse—a reference to the Steed of the Sun, the club’s first ever symbol and for centuries a symbol of the passion and untamable spirit of the Neapolitan people. The footage spans from Mount Vesuvius to Posillipo, going through the heart of the old city all the way to the Scugnizzo Liberato football pitch.

“The new Home jersey has been made in collaboration with EA7 for the sixth consecutive year. The brand worked on the creative project together with Valentina De Laurentiis. The shirt draws inspiration from the collective memory of Napoli fans as well as one of the club’s most iconic jerseys, namely the one from Napoli’s first league title, with its unmistakable sky blue and a reference to the shirts in lightweight wool worn in the Eighties.”

Napoli appointed Massimiliano Allegri as their new head coach with the Italian tactician signing a three-year deal at the Stadio Maradona.

PE’ CIENT’ANNE pic.twitter.com/Urwkfx5NLz

— Official SSC Napoli (@en_sscnapoli) July 6, 2026

Sky Sport Italia reports that Paris FC have outbid Fiorentina with their latest offer for Italian winger Luca Kolesho, but the Tuscans have warned Burnley that they won’t engage in a bidding war with the French club.

Fiorentina risk missing out on Burnley winger Koleosho as Paris FC have reportedly submitted a proposal higher than the Tuscans’.

Koleosho: latest on potential Fiorentina transfer

Fiorentina had made a €11m offer to Burnley last week and held a new round of talks with the English club on Monday.

According to Sky Sport Italia, Burnley informed Fiorentina that they had received a higher offer from Paris FC, where Koleosho spent the second half of the 2025-26 campaign on loan.

Fiorentina, however, have decided not to enter a bidding war with the French club, as they aim to sign Koleosho only on their terms.

At this stage, it’s unclear whether the Italian winger wants to move to Florence or return to his former club, but in any case, the Viola won’t bid more than €11m.

In the meantime, Fiorentina have welcomed Radu Dragusin from Tottenham, with the ex-Genoa defender landing in Italy on Tuesday to undergo medical tests and sign his contract at the Stadio Franchi.

Koleosho made his senior Italy debut this past June under caretaker coach Silvio Baldini.

Aurelio and Luigi De Laurentiis are at the centre of an investigation by the Bari Prosecutor’s Office into alleged false accounting and fraudulent bankruptcy offences related to their management of the Serie C club.

Searches are underway at the Bari and Filmauro headquarters, with Aurelio De Laurentiis and his son Luigi, the sole director of Serie C side Bari, under investigation for alleged false accounting and fraudulent bankruptcy.

Napoli owner De Laurentiis under investigation over Bari finances

Prosecutors have also requested the opening of judicial liquidation proceedings over Bari’s insolvency. The investigation stemmed from an examination of the club’s financial statements, explanatory notes and management reports.

The review, according to investigators, highlighted Bari’s recurring losses of circa €30m between 2019 and 2025, as well as a substantial capital deficit and debt exposure with no credible restructuring plan in place.

Prosecutors believe that Bari’s poor financial situation was further worsened by a series of suspicious transactions, including the transfer of Elia Caprile.

Now at Cagliari, the Italy international joined Bari from Leeds United in 2022, with the Italian club including a sell-on fee for Leeds in the deal.

However, when Caprile joined Napoli one year later, the transfer agreement allegedly didn’t include a bonus for Bari on any future capital gain.

By giving up all rights to any future capital gains, Bari allegedly transferred the player’s entire future economic value to Napoli, thereby deepening their financial distress.

Caprile spent two seasons at Napoli, making just four competitive appearances, before a loan move to Empoli.

The 24-year-old then moved to Cagliari, first on loan in January 2025, then on a permanent transfer for €8m last summer.

Former Bari director Ciro Polito, ex-Napoli sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli (now at Atalanta), Mauro Meluso (Napoli sporting director in 2023-24) and Caprile’s agent Graziano Battistini were also subject to searches in relation to the goalkeeper’s transfers, but are not under investigation.

The request for Bari’s judicial liquidation proceedings was made following a technical analysis of the club’s financial statements from 2019 to 2025, prompting prosecutors to claim that SSC Bari suffer from a “serious economic and financial imbalance capable of jeopardising business continuity,” as quoted by Gazzetta.

Investigators argue that the club remain operational only because of extraordinary financial support from its sole shareholder, Filmauro, through capital injections, debt waivers and the revaluation of the club’s trademark.

On the pitch, Bari were relegated from Serie B to Serie C in the 2025-26 campaign.

Napoli have officially confirmed the appointment of Massimiliano Allegri as their new head coach, with the experienced Italian manager signing a three-year contract to begin a new era at the club.

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Despite a disappointing 2025–26 campaign with Milan, where he failed to secure UEFA Champions League qualification, Allegri has earned the confidence of the 2025- 26 Serie A runners-up, Napoli, which chose the former Juventus and Milan boss over several other candidates, including Vincenzo Italiano.

But what does Allegri’s arrival really mean for Napoli’s future? How will his tactical approach change the team, and which players stand to benefit the most under his management?

Can Scott McTominay build on his impressive performances and become an even more important figure in midfield? How will Kevin De Bruyne fit into Allegri’s structured system after his blockbuster arrival? And can Romelu Lukaku rediscover his best form under a coach who has consistently got the best out of experienced forwards?

In the latest episode of the Football Italia Summer Show, Lorenzo Bettoni and Nima Tavallaey Roodsari break down Allegri’s appointment in depth.

Last chance saloon for Allegri at Napoli?

Tottenham defender Radu Dragusin landed in Italy on Tuesday morning to complete his medical tests and sign his contract with Fiorentina.

Ex-Genoa defender Dragusin is set to return to Serie A after landing in Florence this morning to complete a move from Tottenham.

It’s an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy in a transfer package worth €19m.

Dragusin is undergoing his medical tests in Florence before signing his contract.

Fiorentina already posted a picture of the defender at their training ground, Viola Park.

Watch: Dragusin ready for Fiorentina move

#Dragusin alle visite mediche con la #Fiorentina pic.twitter.com/oqr0hyOOzX

— Flavio Ognissanti (@Flavio_Ognissan) July 7, 2026

Dragusin è qui pic.twitter.com/q1QxLJAyv7

— ACF Fiorentina (@acffiorentina) July 7, 2026

Former Milan and Roma director Frederic Massara is set to be appointed Juventus’ new Head of Football, while François Modesto is expected to leave, according to reports in Italy.

Juventus continue to reshape their club management after replacing their CEO, Damien Comolli, with Giovanni Carnevali last month.

Massara set for Juventus appointment after Roma exit

The most prominent Italian media report that the Bianconeri are set to welcome Massara, a former sporting director at Milan and Roma, as their new Head of Football.

Sky Sport and Fabrizio Romano claim that talks between the two parties are at an advanced stage, while Gazzetta insists that the deal is practically done, so Massara is expected to be confirmed soon as a new member of the Juventus management.

Massara’s move will lead to Modesto’s exit, while, according to Gazzetta, Giorgio Chiellini and Marco Ottolini will remain at the Allianz Stadium serving as Director of Football Strategy and sporting director, respectively.

Massara was Milan’s sporting director during the Rossoneri’s 2021-22 title-winning campaign and held the same role at Roma last season, but left the club in June, largely due to disagreements with coach Gian Piero Gasperini.

• Official: Juventus confirm Massara’s appointment.

Romelu Lukaku and his Belgium teammates celebrated their 4-1 win over the USMNT by mimicking Donald Trump’s ‘dance’ on the pitch in Seattle.

Lukaku scored Belgium’s fourth goal in their 4-1 win over the USMNT in the World Cup Round of 16 on Monday.

The controversy leading up to the game centred on Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension, which allowed the American striker to participate.

US President Donald Trump admitted before kick-off that he had called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to demand that Balogun’s red card be overturned.

Belgium still secured a rather comfortable victory, setting up a quarter-final clash with Spain, and when Lukaku scored the final goal in the stoppages, he celebrated alongside his teammates by imitating the trademark ‘Trump Dance.’

Video: Lukaku and Belgium mock Trump after 4-1 win over USMNT

YMCA:

Romelu Lukaku vs. Donald Trump pic.twitter.com/HpsesCxQwg

— nonleggerlo (@nonleggerlo) July 7, 2026

Belgium was MOCKING Trump at the end of the game pic.twitter.com/p0FRMgsKj0

— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) July 7, 2026