Bologna are weighing up a permanent move for Portuguese right-back Joao Mario after the January loan signing has impressed sufficiently to convince the club’s hierarchy to pursue a full transfer from Juventus this summer.

The right-back has made eight appearances since joining on loan in the winter window, scoring once, and has shown enough quality in both defensive and attacking phases to persuade Vincenzo Italiano’s staff that he merits a longer-term commitment.

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Combined with his 13 appearances in the first half of the season with Juventus, Mario has accumulated over 20 outings across all competitions this campaign.

Bologna eager to make Joao Mario stay permanent

According to Sportmediaset, via CalcioMercato, Bologna are now seriously exploring the possibility of opening formal negotiations with Juventus for a permanent deal.

The timing works in their favour, Juventus are understood to have no plans to reintegrate Mario into their first-team setup despite having paid Porto €11.4 million plus €1.2 million in additional costs just last summer.

The Turin club are willing to listen to offers and have set a valuation of around €10 million, a figure that would allow them to avoid a significant loss on their books while freeing up a squad place.

For Bologna, the deal represents an opportunity to secure an internationally experienced full-back with room to develop further, at a price that feels manageable.

Mario is contracted to Juventus until June 2030, giving both clubs a strong incentive to resolve his future decisively this summer rather than allow uncertainty to drag into another season.

Hakan Calhanoglu has lifted the lid on life at Inter Milan in a wide-ranging interview with Turkish YouTube channel KAFA Sports, touching on the transition from Simone Inzaghi to Cristian Chivu, his controversial move from Milan to Inter, and the moment he was offered a contract by Barcelona.

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The Turkish international was candid about how quickly Chivu won over the Inter dressing room upon his appointment. “He was already coaching the Primavera, sometimes we would play training matches against his team,” Calhanoglu said, via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“When he started working with us, the squad accepted him very quickly. He also played for Inter, and that is undoubtedly an advantage. He gives opportunities to everyone, including the younger players. With Inzaghi it was different, they have two separate philosophies.”

Calhanoglu also revisited the moment that divided football fans in Milan, his decision to cross the city divide in the summer of 2021.

“It is a difficult step, first you have to prove your worth and your fitness, and then convince the fans that you will always give 100%,” he said. “My first match went well though, I scored and got an assist. I was genuinely excited for that game. It was a new experience, a transition in my career.”

Calhanoglu chose Inter over Barcelona & Juventus

He revealed that the move almost did not happen, with Barcelona and Juventus both having expressed interest before Inter made their late move.

“Inzaghi was calling continuously, he wanted me badly. At that moment I asked myself: ‘How can I go from Milan to Inter?’ My agent told me to sleep on it and call him in the morning. I accepted. It was my decision.”

His transformation into a regista, a role he inherited from Marcelo Brozovic, has been one of the defining stories of Inter’s recent success.

“When Brozovic left, the manager wanted to try me in that position. I accepted because it was different, but not by much. I move further from goal but have greater control of the game, it is both offensive and defensive, and I like helping the team. My game has changed and I enjoy new challenges.”

The bond he has forged with Inter’s supporters, who have dedicated a chant to him, remains a source of deep personal pride. “I was surprised,” he admitted. “Here you are ultimately a foreign player. This love is special, it means I have been successful. I am a very important part of this team and my efforts have been rewarded.”

Dino Zoff has backed Italy to reach the World Cup but issued a pointed warning ahead of Thursday’s playoff semi-final against Northern Ireland, reminding the nation that quality alone is never enough when the stakes are this high.

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The 1982 World Cup winning goalkeeper, speaking to Corriere della Sera, via TuttoMercatoWeb, was confident in Italy’s superiority on paper but emphatic that belief would be the decisive factor.

“If we play like Italy, we will definitely go through,” he said. “We are stronger than Northern Ireland, and also Wales and Bosnia. We have more quality, better players, greater experience. But these are special games, whoever believes more wins. So we must believe more. Otherwise…”

World Cup winning goalkeeper Zoff: ‘We are Italy’

Zoff was unwilling to complete that sentence, and equally reluctant to dwell on the consequences of failure. “You must not think about it,” he said firmly. “Fear never helps. You need to be concentrated, clear-headed, convinced, in a certain sense also calm, aware of your own strengths. We are Italy. We play like Italy. Without thinking we have already won, or already lost. You walk onto the pitch and give everything, head held high.”

Drawing on the lessons of his own playing career, Zoff pointed to the 1982 World Cup triumph as the ultimate example of a team that thrived by shutting out external noise.

“We isolated ourselves from everything and everyone, nobody believed in us, and yet it went the way it went.” His advice to Gattuso was similarly direct: trust your own judgment and ignore the voices from outside, including social media.

On one point, at least, Zoff was unequivocal, Gattuso needs no counsel from him. “Only to do what he thinks is best,” he said simply.

Marcello Lippi has sent a heartfelt message of support to Gennaro Gattuso on the eve of Italy’s World Cup playoff semi-final against Northern Ireland, backing his former player to end the Azzurri’s painful absence from the global stage.

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The legendary coach, who led Italy to World Cup glory in 2006 with Gattuso as one of the cornerstones of his squad, took to the pages of La Gazzetta dello Sport to offer an unusually personal and emotional tribute to his former midfielder turned manager.

“I embrace you, Rino,” Lippi wrote. “You were one of my best students, we won a World Cup together, we were a team. On the touchline you remind me a lot of me: in character, in your relationship with players, in your vision. You remind me of… Lippi.”

Ex Italy coach Lippi: ‘Gattuso deserves the best’

The praise from a man widely regarded as one of the greatest Italian coaches of all time will carry enormous weight for Gattuso, who has worked tirelessly in recent months to rebuild a national team that has missed the last two World Cups.

Lippi was unequivocal in his belief that his former pupil deserves success.

“You merit the best,” he wrote. “You merit qualification for the immense passion you have always put into everything, on the pitch, as a coach, in life.”

He concluded with a rallying cry that will resonate with the entire nation ahead of Thursday’s 21:00 local time kick-off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo. “We are all with you, and we go to the World Cup together. We will make it.”

Dusan Vlahovic’s future at Juventus is moving rapidly towards a resolution, with a key meeting between the Serbian striker’s father Milos and CEO Damien Comolli expected before Easter as both parties push to finalise a contract extension ahead of the summer.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the mood has shifted considerably in recent weeks. Vlahovic made his long-awaited return from the serious adductor injury that had kept him sidelined for 112 days when he came off the bench against Sassuolo, and the timing of his comeback has coincided with a significant thaw in contract negotiations.

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Both player and club have made clear their desire to continue together, with Luciano Spalletti, one of Vlahovic’s most enthusiastic advocates, having been promised by the Juventus hierarchy that every effort will be made to secure a renewal.

Juventus iron out financial hurdles in Vlahovic renewal

The financial framework is taking shape.

Vlahovic is fully aware that his current salary of €12 million per season is no longer sustainable, and Juventus are working on a deal that would represent a cut of roughly 40-50%, offset by a signing bonus.

The most likely outcome is a short extension of one to two years, running to 2027 or 2028, at a salary of €6-7 million per season. That would place him just below Kenan Yildiz, who becomes the club’s highest earner at €7.5 million from July.

From Juventus’ perspective, the logic is straightforward.

Rather than spending heavily on an unproven striker, retaining a player who has scored 64 goals in 163 appearances since joining from Fiorentina in January 2022, and whose original transfer fee of over €80 million has been fully amortised, represents sound financial sense.

For Vlahovic, rebuilding his career at a club where he feels supported, following a difficult year culminating in surgery, is a more attractive proposition than seeking a fresh start elsewhere and risking further uncertainty.

Comolli, currently in Paris for European Club Association meetings, is expected back in Turin at the weekend, with the summit to follow shortly after. Should everything proceed to plan, Juventus hope to enter the final weeks of the season with both Spalletti, whose own renewal to 2028 is at the final stage, and Vlahovic tied down, before turning their attention to summer additions including Bernardo Silva and a potential return for Randal Kolo Muani.

Corriere dello Sport

“Endless No.9”

Italy, no more mistakes: World Cup at all costs
Tomorrow in Bergamo: Northern Ireland – play-offs begin for a place in America
Gattuso chooses Kean and Retegui
Best attack among teams yet to qualify: 21 goals, but Belfast was a warning

Italy are under pressure heading into the World Cup play-offs. Despite strong attacking numbers, past failures still hang over them. Gattuso is expected to rely on Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui to lead the line.

“Napoli move for Goretzka”

German midfielder set to leave Bayern
Also liked by Milan and Juventus

Napoli are pushing to sign Leon Goretzka, with competition from other Serie A giants.

“Milan go for Castro”

Move for Bologna’s Argentine striker

Milan are targeting Santiago Castro as a potential attacking reinforcement.

“Juve eye Kessie”

Spalletti idea
The midfielder wants to leave Al-Ahli

Juventus are linked with a surprise move for Kessie, as Spalletti looks for midfield options.

“Thuram, Premier League interest”

Newcastle and Aston Villa keen

Marcus Thuram is attracting attention from England, creating a potential transfer battle.

Tuttosport

“Italy, you’re worth 10 times more than them”

Squad value: €473m vs €45m (Northern Ireland)
Kean prefers Retegui
Dimarco: ‘Mateo knows how to score’
Pio Esposito pushing for Bergamo
Palestra dreaming of the World Cup

Big focus on the gap in quality between Italy and Northern Ireland, with expectation firmly on the Azzurri to deliver.

“Vlahovic gives Juventus a hand”

Agents arrive in Turin, meeting expected
Dusan decides to stay and explore renewal
Possible agreement around €6m salary

Positive signs for Juventus as Vlahovic edges closer to extending his contract.

“Dortmund already in for Vlasic”

Torino at risk of losing him

Nikola Vlasic is attracting interest from Borussia Dortmund.

La Gazzetta dello Sport

“Lippi launches Italy”

The World Cup-winning coach backs Gattuso
‘Rino is like me. We’ll make it’
Italy vs Northern Ireland tomorrow
Palestra tested

Marcello Lippi throws his support behind Gattuso, expressing confidence Italy will qualify.

“Koné tempts Inter”

Over €40m offer needed for the midfielder

Inter are interested in Manu Koné but face a high asking price.

“Vlahovic renewal close”

Agreement nearing for Juventus striker

Further confirmation that Juventus are working toward keeping Vlahovic long-term.

“Final attack”

Milan, there’s Leao
Nkunku also a target

Milan are planning attacking reinforcements, with Nkunku linked and Leao central to their plans.

Gennaro Gattuso has received a significant pre-match boost with the majority of Italy team news trending in a positive direction ahead of Tuesday’s World Cup playoff semi-final against Northern Ireland in Bergamo, with only Gianluca Scamacca confirmed as unavailable.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the most encouraging updates concern Alessandro Bastoni and Sandro Tonali.

The Inter defender, who had appeared the most doubtful after sustaining an ankle injury in the Milan derby, has made remarkable progress at Coverciano, moving from low-intensity jogging to direction-changing sprints, and even striking the ball without discomfort.

Those who know him well insist that a place on the bench will not satisfy him, and a starting role remains a genuine possibility depending on how he responds in training today and in tomorrow’s final session.

Italy team news: Tonali & Calafiori fit, Palestra tested over Politano

Tonali, meanwhile, has overcome the thigh issue sustained during Barcelona’s Champions League tie and trained with good intensity, a timely boost for Gattuso in terms of Italy team news, who is counting on the Newcastle midfielder to provide leadership alongside Barella in the engine room.

Locatelli holds the advantage over Cristante for the third midfield spot.

Matteo Politano took part in only the first half of Monday’s session due to a minor calf complaint, with Marco Palestra, the Atalanta-owned Cagliari winger, tested in his place. Politano is expected to be passed fit, but Gattuso wants guarantees before committing to any selection.

Riccardo Calafiori is fully recovered and set to start on the left of a back three, with Mancini also having reassured the coaching staff over his calf.

To round off the latest batch of Italy team news, Scamacca remains the only certain absentee.

A new step has been taken towards the construction of the new San Siro, with the Comune di Milano officially starting the approval process.

In simple terms, the city has launched an environmental assessment, one of the first key checks needed before any major construction project can begin. This is part of a longer approval pathway that will eventually allow work on the new stadium to go ahead, with the latest updates courtesy of MilanNews.it.

Milan & Inter excitement builds as new San Siro implementation begins

The initial phase of the project includes three main elements: moving a nearby road tunnel, building the new stadium, and partially demolishing the current San Siro Stadium (also known as the Stadio Meazza). These steps will need to be approved by regional authorities before construction can start.

The wider redevelopment of the San Siro area will happen in two stages. After the new stadium is built, the second phase will focus on redeveloping the remaining part of the current stadium, adding commercial buildings, and creating green spaces, including around 80,000 square metres of public parkland that will be handed over to the city.

The project follows the recent sale of the stadium and surrounding area to a company fully owned by the two Milan clubs.

Local authorities and the region are working together to complete the approval process in time for construction to begin in the second half of 2027.

Juventus are exploring options to strengthen their goalkeeping department this summer, with Diogo Costa emerging as a leading target.

The Bianconeri are not fully convinced by Michele Di Gregorio as a long-term No.1, while Mattia Perin is still viewed as a reliable backup despite his recent run in the starting role. As a result, the club are expected to invest in a new goalkeeper regardless of whether they secure Champions League qualification.

Costa among candidates for Juventus goalkeeper hunt

Head coach Luciano Spalletti is said to admire Alisson Becker, whom he previously worked with at Roma, although a deal for the Liverpool goalkeeper would be complicated. Alternative options include Marco Carnesecchi, but Atalanta are demanding a high fee and are increasingly inclined to sell abroad.

According to CalcioMercato.it, Costa, currently with FC Porto, is seen as a strong candidate. The Portugal international is represented by influential agent Jorge Mendes, who maintains close ties with Juventus.

However, Porto are expected to be a major obstacle. The club reportedly value their captain at around €50m following his recent contract renewal until 2030. While Mendes could help negotiate a lower fee, any deal would still require a significant financial commitment from Juventus as they look to reshape their squad ahead of next season.

Alessandro Bastoni is making encouraging progress in his recovery ahead of Italy’s crucial World Cup play-off clash with Northern Ireland.

The Inter Milan defender had been dealing with an ankle issue following a knock sustained in the derby, after a challenge with Adrien Rabiot. Initial concerns arose when Bastoni was limited to light training, focusing on running drills and changes of direction to test the injury.

According to Sky Sport, via FCInter1908, however, there has now been a positive development.

Bastoni making good progress ahead of Italy play-off battle

Bastoni returned to working on the pitch with the ball during today’s session, although he did not train at full intensity. According to updates from the Italian Football Federation, the centre-back is progressing in line with the original recovery plan.

This improvement offers a timely boost for Italy national team as they prepare for a decisive fixture in their bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The centre-back remains a key figure in the defensive setup, and his availability could be crucial in such a high-pressure encounter.

Despite the positive signs, there is still no certainty over whether he will start. A final decision is expected after the next training session, which should clarify if he is ready to be included in the starting line-up or will instead begin the match on the bench.

Roma wing-back Wesley has earned praise from Carlo Ancelotti as the Brazil coach weighs up his options ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

The Brazilian is enjoying a strong debut season in Serie A, quickly adapting to the tactical demands of Italian football under Gian Piero Gasperini. With 35 appearances, four goals and two assists across all competitions, Wesley has emerged as one of Roma’s standout performers following his summer arrival.

Ancelotti, who is preparing to finalise his squad after upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia, admitted there are still only a handful of places available, and competition remains fierce, particularly in wide areas.

“There are four or five places still open, and we have many doubts,” he told SBT Brasil, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.

Brazil boss Ancelotti praises Roma man Wesley

Despite acknowledging a relative shortage of traditional full-backs compared to previous Brazilian generations, Ancelotti singled out Wesley as a positive development.

“We have players ready in that position: the young Wesley is doing very well at Roma. For our team, I’m satisfied.”

His form in Italy has put him firmly in contention for a place in Brazil’s final squad, with the national team looking to refresh its options on the flanks. Wesley’s attacking output and ability to settle quickly in a demanding league have strengthened his case at a crucial moment in the selection process.

Ancelotti also hinted at tactical flexibility if doubts remain, suggesting he could deploy central defenders in wide roles to maintain balance.

“The most important thing is the team’s balance,” he said. “If you have a winger who pushes forward a lot, you don’t always need a full-back doing the same.”

Even so, Wesley’s rise offers Brazil a natural solution, and one that could yet secure him a place on the biggest stage.

Marco Palestra admitted he was surprised to receive his first senior call-up from Gennaro Gattuso, describing the opportunity as a dream come true.

The Cagliari wide player is one of the fresh faces in the Italy national team squad ahead of a crucial international break, and arrives with growing confidence after his recent performances at club level.

“I wasn’t expecting the call from Gattuso. It’s a dream for everyone,” Palestra told Vivo Azzurro TV, via AlfredoPedulla.com. “Of course I believed in it, and I’m very happy to be here.”

Reflecting on his development, the winger revealed he was not always seen as a physically dominant player in his youth.

“At Under-15 level I was a bit behind physically compared to the others. But my coaches never left me out or made me feel inadequate, and my family always supported me.”

Palestra: ‘Everyone welcomed me to the Italy set-up very well’

Palestra also described his first experience at Coverciano, praising both the environment and the support he has received since joining the senior setup.

“Everyone welcomed me very well and the coach made me feel comfortable straight away. The kind words from Silvio Baldini meant a lot, he helped me a great deal and gave me important advice. If I’m here, it’s also thanks to him and his staff.”

Italy are preparing for a decisive World Cup play-off clash against Northern Ireland, a match Palestra is already fully focused on.

“It’s one of the most important games in recent years. Even if it’s my first time here, I feel the importance and responsibility of wearing this shirt. We’re training well, I see a very focused group, but also mentally free, because the psychological side can make the difference.”

Michael Kayode has received a call-up to the Italy U21 squad after being overlooked by Gennaro Gattuso for the senior side’s World Cup play-offs.

The 2004-born defender, currently impressing at Brentford following his move from Fiorentina, has been enjoying a strong season in the Premier League. Despite that form, he was not included in Gattuso’s squad for Italy’s crucial upcoming fixtures.

Baldini calls Kayode up to Italy U21 after no Azzurri call-up from Gattuso

The full-back has instead been drafted into the U21 setup by Silvio Baldini and is expected to join the group in Tirrenia later today, as per FiorentinaNews.

His omission from the senior squad has raised some eyebrows, particularly given the form of several current and former Fiorentina players. Alongside Kayode, names such as Nicolo Fagioli and Federico Bernardeschi were also left out despite strong recent performances.

The decision has sparked debate over selection choices ahead of the play-offs, with the Brentford man’s continued development now set to continue at youth level for the time being.

Paolo Di Canio has reignited criticism of Rafael Leao, claiming AC Milan perform better without the Portuguese winger.

Leao is enduring a difficult period marked by inconsistent performances, injury concerns and reported tensions within the squad, including a recent disagreement with Christian Pulisic. Ongoing speculation over his contract situation has only added to the uncertainty surrounding his future.

Speaking at the Legends Trophy event, with quotes via the Corriere della Sera, Di Canio pointed to Milan’s improved output in Leao’s absence.

“Without him, Milan score more goals and look more solid: 21 goals in eight matches without Leao,” he said. “Will he get angry? I don’t care. He’s not my brother or cousin. I’ve got nothing against him.”

Di Canio questions Leao contribution at Milan

The former Italy forward also questioned Leao’s overall contribution beyond goals, suggesting the winger benefits from the nature of Serie A defending.

“He scores more by playing less as a striker because in Italy it’s easier. Defences aren’t that strong, so he can always find a moment. The issue is what you produce during the match beyond the goal.”

Di Canio insisted his comments were not personal, but rather aimed at raising standards within a Milan side still chasing the Scudetto under Massimiliano Allegri.

“If I had a lazy player scoring three goals per game, maybe I’d accept it. But Milan can’t afford that if they want to build solidity, not just on the pitch but in attitude. I’m not saying they should sell him, maybe he turns it around and I’ll be the first to admit I was wrong.”

Juventus are exploring a move to bring Randal Kolo Muani back to Turin, while Paris Saint-Germain are considering a potential swap deal involving Jonathan David.

Kolo Muani, who spent part of 2025 on loan at Juventus, remains keen on a return after a positive spell in Italy, where he scored 10 goals and felt valued by the club. His future, however, lies away from PSG, who have made it clear they are seeking a permanent solution rather than another loan.

The French striker is also expected to leave Tottenham Hotspur at the end of the season, regardless of their league status, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Juventus want Kolo Muani reunion as PSG consider David swap

Juventus are open to a reunion, particularly with head coach Luciano Spalletti a long-time admirer of the forward. The Italian tactician believes Kolo Muani’s movement and versatility would strengthen the attack, potentially alongside Dusan Vlahovic, whose own future remains uncertain.

PSG’s sporting director is reportedly evaluating a swap deal involving David, a player he previously worked with in France. Juventus, though, have mixed feelings about the Canadian forward and could be tempted by the opportunity to re-sign Kolo Muani, even if it means parting ways with David.

A deal would depend on several factors, including Juventus securing Champions League qualification and reaching an agreement on valuation, with figures around €40 million being discussed.

Luigi De Siervo has warned that Italian football is falling behind its European rivals due to outdated infrastructure, insisting modern stadiums are essential for the future of the game.

Speaking to Undici, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb, the Lega Serie A CEO highlighted the scale of the issue.

“In our country we have the oldest stadiums in Europe, with an average age of over 70 years per venue,” De Siervo said. “Fortunately, the situation is starting to change, but the new economic model will not be fully operational for at least six or seven years. In the meantime, the gap with other leagues will continue to grow.”

Serie A CEO De Siervo wants modernisation ahead of Euro 2032

Italy is set to co-host UEFA Euro 2032, a deadline De Siervo described as impossible to ignore. Especially with a new stadium for Milan and Inter entering construction soon and proposals from both Lazio and Roma to move on from the Stadio Olimpico.

“We have a deadline that cannot be postponed: in 2032 we will host the European Championships. There are outstanding projects, such as the new stadium in Milan with an investment of over €1 billion, as well as important plans involving Lazio and Roma. Discussions are ongoing in Genoa, while in Florence there is a moment of profound transformation.”

De Siervo stressed that infrastructure is closely tied to financial growth, particularly as clubs look to diversify revenue streams beyond broadcasting. In Milan, for example, an entirely new San Siro complex will offer more commercial opportunities and is expected to boost revenue massively. It is no surprise that the clubs chose to work with an architectural firm that has worked on other huge stadiums in Europe, such as London’s Wembley Stadium.

“Right now we are going through the most difficult phase. Our clubs are still heavily reliant on TV revenue, but commercial income is growing. Having modern, state-of-the-art stadiums would provide a major boost in that respect.”

He also pointed to a broader shift within the industry, with new executives bringing fresh ideas into Italian football.

“Fortunately, football is now attracting managers from more advanced industries, introducing new skills, different visions and ambitious projects.”

For Serie A, modernisation is no longer optional, it is a necessary step to remain competitive on and off the pitch.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly considering another managerial change, with Roberto De Zerbi emerging as the leading candidate to replace Igor Tudor.

According to reports in England, Spurs are keen to accelerate talks and could even appoint De Zerbi during the upcoming international break, with the aim of having him in place for their next Premier League fixture away to Sunderland on April 12.

This follows on reports from earlier in the week that suggested the Italian coach would be signed on the condition that the club avoid relegation.

Tottenham eye De Zerbi to replace Tudor in the midst of survival fight

De Zerbi, currently without a club after his recent spell at Olympique de Marseille, is seen as both a short-term solution and a long-term project. Tottenham’s hierarchy view him as the right profile to begin a rebuild, particularly as the club battle to avoid what would be a shock relegation.

Results under Tudor, who replaced Thomas Frank in February, have been deeply concerning. The Croatian has collected just one point from his first five league matches, including a damaging 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest in a direct relegation clash.

Tudor has won just one of his seven matches in charge overall, that coming in a 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, a result that ultimately proved insufficient to secure progression.

The situation has been further complicated by personal circumstances, with Tudor absent from post-match duties following the recent passing of his father, receiving support from the club.

However, the defeat to Forest may prove decisive. With relegation now a genuine threat and the financial implications severe, Tottenham are seriously weighing up a swift change in the dugout, with De Zerbi the man they hope can stabilise the situation and steer the club to safety.

Milan are plotting a significant summer overhaul, with sporting director Igli Tare already identifying targets across multiple positions as the club look to hand Massimiliano Allegri the tools to mount a sustained title challenge next season.

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A Milan scout was present at the Dall’Ara on Sunday for Bologna’s clash with Lazio, monitoring two specific targets according to Tuttosport, via TuttoMercatoWeb. Defensively, Mario Gila remains a profile of genuine interest. In attack, it was Santiago Castro who caught the eye.

The Argentine striker has been one of Serie A’s more exciting forwards this season, and Bologna are well aware of his value. The Emilian club are demanding a minimum of €40 million for his signature, a fee that reflects both his age and his considerable potential.

West Ham, Forest & Milan do battle for Castro

That price tag has not deterred interest from the Premier League, with West Ham and Nottingham Forest both having registered their admiration for Castro in recent months. The financial firepower of English clubs could make the race a difficult one for Milan to win.

Castro is not the only attacking name on Milan’s summer shortlist. Moise Kean, Mateo Retegui and Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson have also been explored as the club cast a wide net in their search for a top-quality centre-forward to lead Allegri’s line next season.

With eight league games remaining and the Scudetto race still alive, the primary focus at San Siro remains firmly on the present. But behind the scenes, the groundwork for a busy summer is already well underway.