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Today — 18 December 2025Main stream

Barcelona & Bayern remain keen on Juventus forward Vlahovic

18 December 2025 at 00:53

Dusan Vlahovic is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, but his future away from the pitch continues to attract significant attention across Europe.

Reports from CalcioMercato today suggest that major European clubs are circling as the player’s contract with Juventus ticks away.

The Juventus striker is currently injured following surgery on a serious thigh muscle problem suffered against Cagliari, an issue that has extended his recovery timeline and is expected to keep him out of action for around three months.

While the injury has halted his momentum on the field, it has done little to cool speculation surrounding his contractual situation.

TURIN, ITALY - NOVEMBER 04: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between Juventus and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Juventus Stadium on November 04, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 04: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between Juventus and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Juventus Stadium on November 04, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)

Vlahovic contract concern for Juventus as Barcelona & Bayern circle

Vlahovic’s deal with Juventus runs until June 30, 2026, a deadline that places the Serbian international firmly among the most high-profile players who could potentially approach the final year of his contract without renewal.

That scenario continues to be closely monitored by several European giants. Barcelona and Bayern Munich are both understood to remain attentive to developments, aware that Vlahovic’s situation could evolve into a major market opportunity if talks over an extension fail to progress.

Milan are also said to be monitoring the Serbian.

TURIN, ITALY - NOVEMBER 29: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC lies injured during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Cagliari Calcio at Allianz Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC lies injured during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Cagliari Calcio at Allianz Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Juventus are yet to reach a breakthrough over a new deal, and the striker’s prolonged absence only adds another layer of uncertainty. The Bianconeri will first focus on Vlahovic’s recovery, but his long-term future is increasingly shaping up as a key issue heading into the coming transfer windows.

With time on his contract ticking down and elite clubs watching closely, Vlahovic’s next steps, once he returns to fitness, could prove decisive for both player and club.

Inter target Roma wing-back Wesley as Dumfries undergoes surgery

17 December 2025 at 23:56

Inter are reportedly considering a move for Roma wing-back Wesley as they continue to plan for life without Denzel Dumfries, whose injury has forced the club to assess alternatives on the right flank.

After missing out on Manu Koné in the summer, Inter are now said to be looking again at Roma’s squad, with L’Interista, via TuttoMercatoWeb, reporting strong interest in the Brazilian international, born in 2002.

Wesley is a regular starter for Roma under Gian Piero Gasperini and is viewed at Viale della Liberazione as a player capable of stepping into Dumfries’ role without a significant drop in quality.

MILAN, ITALY - NOVEMBER 02: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Wesley Franca of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AC Milan and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 02: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Wesley Franca of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AC Milan and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The profile fits Inter’s ownership strategy: Wesley is young, already experienced at a high level, and earns around €2m per season. However, Roma are expected to demand a significant fee, with talks unlikely to begin below €30-35m.

Inter need grows as Dumfries undergoes surgery

The Nerazzurri could look to include Davide Frattesi as a bargaining chip, a player who remains highly appreciated by the Giallorossi, potentially helping to lower the overall cost of any deal.

The need for a credible alternative has grown after Dumfries underwent ankle surgery on Tuesday at the Fortius Clinic in London. The Dutch international’s rehabilitation timeline has yet to be defined, with further updates expected in the coming weeks.

MILAN, ITALY - OCTOBER 04: Denzel Dumfries of Internazionale looks on during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 04: Denzel Dumfries looks on during the Serie A match at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Dumfries confirmed the success of the operation himself, explaining that it had been “a tough month full of emotions” but adding that “the surgery went well and the worst is now behind me. I’m focused on recovery and will do everything I can to return to the pitch as soon as possible.”

Fiorentina coach Vanoli urges focus ahead of Lausanne clash

17 December 2025 at 23:33

Paolo Vanoli urged Fiorentina to focus on the present as they prepare for Thursday night’s Conference League clash away to Lausanne, while acknowledging the growing pressure surrounding results and supporter unrest.

Speaking at the Stade de la Tuilière, with quotes via FirenzeViola, the Viola coach dismissed the idea that he is wedded to a single tactical system, despite sticking with his current set-up in recent weeks. “I keep repeating myself, I’m not an ideologue and everything is possible,” Vanoli said, leaving the door open to changes if required.

With a Serie A meeting against Udinese looming, Vanoli insisted the European fixture must still take priority. “I look at things one match at a time. Tomorrow’s game is the most important,” he explained, before admitting that “it’s normal to have one eye on the league.”

BERGAMO, ITALY - NOVEMBER 30: Paolo Vanoli, Head Coach of Fiorentina looks on prior to the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and ACF Fiorentina at Gewiss Stadium on November 30, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: Paolo Vanoli, Head Coach of Fiorentina looks on prior to the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and ACF Fiorentina at Gewiss Stadium on November 30, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Vanoli was also asked about the wider context of the season and his own position. “I don’t think about my future. I think about what’s best for Fiorentina and we’re giving everything for that. My future has to remain in the background,” he said. Reflecting on the recent draw with Hellas Verona, he added: “We created five chances. We have to focus on those things, but we must be more clinical and avoid conceding goals.”

Fiorentina coach Vanoli keen not to underestimate Lausanne

Assessing Lausanne, Vanoli warned against underestimating the Swiss side. “They’re having some difficulties, but they play an interesting diamond and have quality players, even if one is away at the Africa Cup of Nations,” he noted. “It’s a difficult match, on a synthetic pitch that’s different from ours. They’ve done better in the Conference League too, it’s a delicate game.”

On fan dissatisfaction, Vanoli was frank. “What we’re doing isn’t enough. We have to do more for our people,” he said, while urging positivity: “We need a result that gives us belief and confidence.”

Asked directly whether the group remains united amid rumours, Vanoli replied simply: “Yes.”

FLORENCE, ITALY - DECEMBER 11: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Dynamo Kyiv at Stadio Artemio Franchi on December 11, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
FLORENCE, ITALY – DECEMBER 11: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Dynamo Kyiv at Stadio Artemio Franchi on December 11, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Goalkeeper selection remains open. “Martinelli has great potential, but we also have a keeper who has done important things in his career and must help us out of this situation. Either of them could play tomorrow,” he confirmed.

Finally, Vanoli provided updates on injuries. “Gosens hasn’t had a relapse, just discomfort above the calf. We’re assessing him day by day, as we are Fazzini with his ankle problem,” he concluded.

Yesterday — 17 December 2025Main stream

Inter youngster Carboni set to end Genoa loan in January as Sassuolo & Parma circle

17 December 2025 at 21:55

Valentin Carboni is set to leave Genoa in January, with Inter already planning to recall the young playmaker before sending him out on another loan.

The forward has struggled for regular playing time in Liguria, managing just 354 minutes across all competitions this season.

After a serious knee injury suffered last year during his spell at Marseille, Carboni has found it difficult to build continuity, something Inter believe is essential for his full recovery and development.

GENOA, ITALY - AUGUST 23: Valentin Carboni of Genoa controls the ball under pressure from Lameck Banda and Antonino Gallo of Lecce during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and US Lecce at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on August 23, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
GENOA, ITALY – AUGUST 23: Valentin Carboni of Genoa controls the ball under pressure from Lameck Banda and Antonino Gallo of Lecce during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and US Lecce at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on August 23, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

Both Inter and Genoa had hoped the loan move would benefit all parties, but the lack of opportunities has prompted discussions between the two clubs.

Inter & Genoa reach agreement to end Carboni loan early

According to CalcioMercato, an agreement has already been reached to terminate the loan early when the January transfer window opens.

Carboni will briefly return to Milan, but his stay is expected to be short. Inter see the move as a chance to redirect his development, with a new loan considered the best solution at this stage.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JUNE 21: Valentin Carboni #45 of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group E match between FC Internazionale Milano and Urawa Red Diamonds at Lumen Field on June 21, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JUNE 21: Valentin Carboni #45 of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group E match between FC Internazionale Milano and Urawa Red Diamonds at Lumen Field on June 21, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

For now, the player’s entourage is focused on finding a destination within Italy, with no immediate plans for a move abroad. Tactical considerations are also playing a role, as Carboni is best suited to systems that allow him freedom behind the forwards rather than the 3-5-2, which remains common across Serie A.

Sassuolo and Parma have both been sounded out as potential options, though no final decision has been made. What appears certain is that Carboni’s time at Genoa will come to an end in January as Inter look to relaunch one of their most highly rated academy products.

Leao unlikely to feature as Milan face Napoli in Supercoppa semi-final

17 December 2025 at 21:08

There is little optimism at Milan over the availability of Rafael Leao ahead of the Supercoppa Italiana semi-final against Napoli, scheduled for 19:00 GMT on Thursday evening.

According to TuttoMercatoWeb, the Portugal international did not take part in the final training session with the rest of the squad and instead trained individually.

As things stand, Leao is expected to be left out of the matchday squad and could watch the game from the stands.

MILAN, ITALY - NOVEMBER 23: Rafael Leao of AC Milan competes for the ball with Francesco Acerbi of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: Rafael Leao of AC Milan competes for the ball with Francesco Acerbi of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Leao set to miss Milan Supercoppa clash with Napoli

Leao has been struggling with a muscle problem since December 8, although medical tests have previously ruled out any structural injury.

Despite that, his recovery has not progressed quickly enough to allow a return in time for the Supercoppa clash.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference earlier today, head coach Massimiliano Allegri had adopted a cautious tone, explaining that a final decision would be taken at the last moment.

“We’ll see if he becomes available,” Allegri said. “He hasn’t trained with the team for several days, so today we’ll evaluate his condition.”

MILAN, ITALY - DECEMBER 14: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Allegri also confirmed further injury setbacks within the squad.

Matteo Gabbia has been ruled out after suffering a knock and is expected to miss several days, with Milan hoping to have him back for the Serie A fixture on January 28.

Why Fullkrug would miss first game for Milan after West Ham departure

17 December 2025 at 20:33

Niclas Fullkrug is set to become a Milan player in January, but the Germany international will be forced to miss his potential first match for the Rossoneri due to registration rules.

Barring late complications in negotiations or medical checks, Fullkrug is expected to complete his move from West Ham once the January transfer window opens. However, Serie A regulations mean Milan will only be able to register new signings from January 2, delaying his official availability.

According to Calciomercato.com, Milan have already reached a financial agreement with the striker’s agent worth €1.5m until the end of the season. Fullkrug has also instructed his representatives to place other offers from the Bundesliga on hold as he prioritises the move to San Siro.

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 22: Niclas Fullkrug of West Ham United during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Chelsea at London Stadium on August 22, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) (Milan links)
LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 22: During the Premier League match between West Ham United and Chelsea at London Stadium on August 22, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Fullkrug will miss Milan trip to Cagliari

Despite the deal being close, Gazzerra.it reports that Fullkrug will not be eligible for Milan’s away match against Cagliari on January 2 due to the lack of technical time required to complete his registration.

Head coach Massimiliano Allegri is instead expected to have the German available from January 8, when Milan face Genoa, a timely boost given the Rossoneri’s current attacking concerns.

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 22: Niclas Fullkrug of West Ham United applauds the fans as he warms up prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United and Chelsea at London Stadium on August 22, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Striker Santiago Gimenez is scheduled to undergo surgery, leaving Milan short of options in the final third. Until Fullkrug’s arrival, Allegri will rely on Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leao, Christopher Nkunku and, if required, Ruben Loftus-Cheek in advanced roles.

Icardi to leave Galatasaray as agents contact Milan, Como & Roma

17 December 2025 at 20:05

Mauro Icardi is expected to leave Galatasaray, with his representatives already sounding out a possible return to Serie A, according to reports in Italy.

The former Inter captain has been proposed to Milan, Como and Roma, with Sportmediaset, via CalcioMercato, claiming initial enquiries have been made ahead of the January transfer window. At present, these remain exploratory contacts rather than concrete negotiations.

Icardi joined Galatasaray in the 2022-23 season, initially on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, and is under contract until June 2026.

ISTANBUL, TURKEY - April 21: Como linked Mauro Icardi of Galatasaray celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Turkish Super League match between Galatasaray and Pendikspor at Rams Park on April 21, 2024 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – April 21: Como linked Mauro Icardi of Galatasaray celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Turkish Super League match between Galatasaray and Pendikspor at Rams Park on April 21, 2024 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)

However, that deadline is increasingly being viewed as a limit rather than a guarantee, with this season expected to be his last in Istanbul and a January exit not ruled out.

Icardi role at Galatasaray diminishes amid Italy & Spain links

Although he has recovered from a knee injury, competition within the squad has intensified. The presence of Victor Osimhen and Leroy Sané, combined with Galatasaray’s intention to sign another striker in January, with Ademola Lookman still a leading target, has further reduced Icardi’s role.

The Argentine has made 21 appearances this season, but has accumulated just 800 minutes and started only six times. Despite that, his scoring record remains strong, with eight goals in the Turkish Super Lig.

epa10872447 Galatasaray’s Mauro Icardi reacts during the UEFA Champions Legaue group A match between Galatasaray and Copenhagen in Istanbul, Turkey, 20 September 2023. EPA-EFE/TOLGA BOZOGLU

There is also reported interest from Spain. According to Argentine outlet Mitre Live, Icardi is considering a move to LaLiga, with Elche and Real Oviedo both monitoring his situation. The report adds that a move to Spain would be favoured for personal reasons, with both clubs offering the possibility of living in Madrid.

Nottingham Forest & Bologna eye Inter veteran De Vrij

17 December 2025 at 19:25

Inter defender Stefan de Vrij is attracting interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia, the Premier League and across Europe, as he weighs up his future at San Siro with an eye on the 2026 World Cup.

According to Tuttosport, via CalcioMercato, Al-Ittihad have joined the race for the experienced centre-back, while Bologna, Nottingham Forest and Benfica are also monitoring his situation ahead of the January transfer window.

De Vrij’s current contract with Inter runs until June 2026, and so he could leave on a free transfer at the end of this season. He earns around €3.8m net per year, and concerns over limited playing time are believed to be driving his assessment of potential alternatives.

TURIN, ITALY - MAY 11: Stefan de Vrij of FC Internazionale clashes with teammate Josep Martinez during the Serie A match between Torino and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on May 11, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – MAY 11: Stefan de Vrij clashes with teammate Josep Martinez during the Serie A match between Torino and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on May 11, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

De Vrij could leave Inter as Nerazzurri eye Muharemovic

The Dutch international has made 286 appearances for Inter since arriving on a free transfer from Lazio in 2018, but has featured just seven times this season.

Even following Francesco Acerbi’s injury, head coach Cristian Chivu has often preferred Yann Bisseck in the middle of his back three.

Meanwhile, Inter continue to track Tarik Muharemovic, the Bosnia and Herzegovina defender, as part of their longer-term planning. The centre-back recently extended his contract with Sassuolo until June 2031, having been signed permanently from Juventus for €3m last summer.

SASSUOLO, ITALY - DECEMBER 06: Tarik Muharemovic of US Sassuolo Calcio celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and ACF Fiorentina at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on December 06, 2025 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Tarik Muharemovic of US Sassuolo Calcio celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and ACF Fiorentina at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on December 06, 2025 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Muharemovic was played well this season and speculation has already started to grow around his future.

Juventus retain a 50 per cent sell-on clause on any future transfer.

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