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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ENGLAND HAVE THE OPENER!

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

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

“Enzo Fernandez has simply been setting his sights!”

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

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

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

Argentina are ahead!

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

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

England 1-2 Argentina

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

15-07-2026 20:00

Semi-final

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

England

Argentina

1 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

Elliot Anderson		37'
		42'		Lautaro Martínez

2nd half

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

Match statistic

36

Possession %

64

5

Total shots

15

2

Shots on target

5

1

Shots off target

7

2

Blocked shots

3

1

Corners

6

1

Offsides

3

11

Fouls

15

England

Argentina

Starting lineups

1

Jordan Pickford

Goalkeeper

25

Djed Spence

Defender

90'

5

John Stones

Defender

90'

6

Marc Guehi

Defender

24

Reece James

Defender

82'

4

Declan Rice

Midfielder

82'

8

Elliot Anderson

Midfielder

10

Jude Bellingham

Midfielder

18

Anthony Gordon

Attacker

72'

9

Harry Kane

Attacker

17

Morgan Rogers

Attacker

23

Emiliano Martínez

Goalkeeper

13

Cristian Romero

Defender

6

Lisandro Martínez

Defender

72'

26

Nahuel Molina

Defender

72'

3

Nicolás Tagliafico

Defender

81'

20

Alexis Mac Allister

Midfielder

24

Enzo Fernández

Midfielder

5

Leandro Paredes

Midfielder

64'

17

Giuliano Simeone

Attacker

72'

9

Julián Álvarez

Attacker

10

Lionel Messi

Attacker

Substitutes

14

Jordan Henderson

Midfielder

20

Noni Madueke

Attacker

7

Bukayo Saka

Attacker

13

Dean Henderson

Goalkeeper

23

James Trafford

Goalkeeper

19

Ollie Watkins

Attacker

12

Trevoh Chalobah

Defender

16

Kobbie Mainoo

Midfielder

21

Eberechi Eze

Attacker

2

Ezri Konsa

Defender

72'

15

Dan Burn

Defender

82'

3

Nico O’Reilly

Defender

82'

11

Marcus Rashford

Attacker

90'

22

Ivan Toney

Attacker

90'

1

Juan Musso

Goalkeeper

11

Giovani Lo Celso

Midfielder

14

Exequiel Palacios

Midfielder

12

Gerónimo Rulli

Goalkeeper

2

Marcos Senesi

Defender

16

Thiago Almada

Midfielder

25

Facundo Medina

Defender

18

Nico Paz

Midfielder

8

Valentín Barco

Defender

21

José Manuel López

Attacker

15

Nico González

Attacker

64'

19

Nicolás Otamendi

Defender

72'

7

Rodrigo de Paul

Midfielder

72'

4

Gonzalo Montiel

Defender

72'

22

Lautaro Martínez

Attacker

81'

Como have accepted an offer from Udinese for Kosovo international Mergim Vojvoda, claim Sportitalia, so now he will discuss personal terms.

The right-back is 31 years old and his current contract at the Stadio Sinigaglia runs to June 2028.

He joined Como in February 2025 from Torino at a cost of €2m, before that playing for Standard Liege.

Vojvoda heading to Udinese

There had been reports of interest from the likes of Cagliari, Venezia and Monza, but it would seem as if Udinese have the upper hand.

Sportitalia transfer pundit Gianluigi Longari claims that Udinese made a proposal for Vojvoda and Como have accepted.

Sky Sport Italia give the figures as €1.3m plus €0.3m in add-ons.

Now it is up to the Friulani to agree personal terms with the versatile defender, who can also play in central defence, or in a more advanced position down the right flank.

He made 34 appearances for Como last season between Serie A and the Coppa Italia, scoring two goals with three assists.

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

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

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

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

Como take modern approach to transfer market

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inter captain Lautaro Martinez, Juventus winger Nico Gonzalez and Como’s Nico Paz are on the bench for Lionel Messi’s Argentina against England in the World Cup semi-final.

It kicks off in Atlanta at 20.00 UK time (21.00 CEST).

The winners go on to face Spain in the Final on Sunday evening, while the losers fight with France for the bronze medal on Saturday.

There is some Italian representation here, as Maurizio Mariani is the fourth official on the touchline dealing with Thomas Tuchel and Lionel Scaloni.

Argentina have scraped their way through to this stage in defending their title won in 2022, needing extra time against Cape Verde, a last-gasp turnaround from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2 amid controversy, and again extra time to defeat 10-man Switzerland.

Inter captain Lautaro Martinez scored twice in this World Cup, but he is benched once more in favour of Julian Alvarez.

There was expected to be a Serie A player in the starting XI, as for the first time Juventus man Nico Gonzalez was going to get the nod rather than ex-Udinese midfielder Rodrigo De Paul on the right.

Instead, it is Giuliano Simeone, younger brother of Torino forward Giovanni Simeone, who plays.

Curiously, Giuliano was born in Rome because his father Diego was playing for Lazio at the time.

Nico Gonzalez spent this season on loan with Atletico Madrid, but they did not agree to buy him outright yet, scoring five goals in 37 games.

Nahuel Molina, another former Udinese player, starts at right-back, while ex-Roma midfielder Leandro Paredes has shaken off a knock.

England were given their toughest test yet in the quarter-final, squeezing past Erling Haaland’s Norway in extra time thanks to a Jude Bellingham brace.

All but one of their goals in the competition have been scored by either Bellingham or Harry Kane.

Jordan Henderson is out after breaking his arm jumping over an advertising board, while Jarrell Quansah continues his two-match ban.

Declan Rice has recovered from a stomach bug, but the surprise is Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa given his second start of the World Cup on the right.

There is some reshuffling in defence, with Reece James and Inter-linked Djed Spence as full-backs.

England vs. Argentina line-ups

England: Pickford; James, Stones, Guehi, Spence; Rice, Anderson; Rogers, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane

Argentina: Emiliano Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Tagliafico; Simeone, Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, Mac Allister; Messi, Julian Alvarez

15-07-2026 20:00

Semi-final

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

England

Argentina

1 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

Elliot Anderson		37'
		42'		Lautaro Martínez

2nd half

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

Match statistic

36

Possession %

64

5

Total shots

15

2

Shots on target

5

1

Shots off target

7

2

Blocked shots

3

1

Corners

6

1

Offsides

3

11

Fouls

15

England

Argentina

Starting lineups

1

Jordan Pickford

Goalkeeper

25

Djed Spence

Defender

90'

5

John Stones

Defender

90'

6

Marc Guehi

Defender

24

Reece James

Defender

82'

4

Declan Rice

Midfielder

82'

8

Elliot Anderson

Midfielder

10

Jude Bellingham

Midfielder

18

Anthony Gordon

Attacker

72'

9

Harry Kane

Attacker

17

Morgan Rogers

Attacker

23

Emiliano Martínez

Goalkeeper

13

Cristian Romero

Defender

6

Lisandro Martínez

Defender

72'

26

Nahuel Molina

Defender

72'

3

Nicolás Tagliafico

Defender

81'

20

Alexis Mac Allister

Midfielder

24

Enzo Fernández

Midfielder

5

Leandro Paredes

Midfielder

64'

17

Giuliano Simeone

Attacker

72'

9

Julián Álvarez

Attacker

10

Lionel Messi

Attacker

Substitutes

14

Jordan Henderson

Midfielder

20

Noni Madueke

Attacker

7

Bukayo Saka

Attacker

13

Dean Henderson

Goalkeeper

23

James Trafford

Goalkeeper

19

Ollie Watkins

Attacker

12

Trevoh Chalobah

Defender

16

Kobbie Mainoo

Midfielder

21

Eberechi Eze

Attacker

2

Ezri Konsa

Defender

72'

15

Dan Burn

Defender

82'

3

Nico O’Reilly

Defender

82'

11

Marcus Rashford

Attacker

90'

22

Ivan Toney

Attacker

90'

1

Juan Musso

Goalkeeper

11

Giovani Lo Celso

Midfielder

14

Exequiel Palacios

Midfielder

12

Gerónimo Rulli

Goalkeeper

2

Marcos Senesi

Defender

16

Thiago Almada

Midfielder

25

Facundo Medina

Defender

18

Nico Paz

Midfielder

8

Valentín Barco

Defender

21

José Manuel López

Attacker

15

Nico González

Attacker

64'

19

Nicolás Otamendi

Defender

72'

7

Rodrigo de Paul

Midfielder

72'

4

Gonzalo Montiel

Defender

72'

22

Lautaro Martínez

Attacker

81'

Como have officially signed Italy Under-20 international Mattia Liberali from Catanzaro, activating the €6m release clause after he turned down a return to Milan.

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

“I’m really keen to develop and improve, and I’ve found we share a lot of common ground with the club in this regard. I’ve also spoken to the manager, and I think the playing philosophy is perfect for me. I can’t wait to take to the pitch at the Sinigaglia and meet the fans.”

Liberali ready to take off at Como

The creative midfielder only turned 19 in April and has represented Italy at various youth levels throughout his career.

He was a product of the Milan youth academy, but left amid frustration last summer when he realised there would be no playing time or imminent promotion to the senior squad.

Liberali joined Catanzaro effectively for nothing, but with Milan still owed 50 per cent of the future sale fee.

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

However, he was convinced that Como and working with Cesc Fabregas would be the correct next step in his career.

He has signed a contract with Como until June 2031.

“Mattia is a creative player with excellent technical ability and confidence in possession,” coach Fabregas told the club website.

“He can operate in tight spaces, create chances and contribute in the final third. We believe his qualities fit our style and look forward to helping him continue his development.”

Last season, Liberali scored four goals with four assists in 30 games for Serie B side Catanzaro.

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)

Como have been very active, but also need to whittle down their squad, as Felipe Jack joins Cremonese, Southampton want Ivan Azon, while Club Brugge and Freiburg target Yannik Engelhardt.

The Lariani qualified for the Champions League after finishing fourth in Serie A and reaching the Coppa Italia semi-final, so are going to raise the bar even more this summer.

Cesc Fabregas has already received reinforcements like Luis Milla from Getafe, Kaiki from Cruzeiro and Barcelona youth product Andres Cuenca.

The focus therefore now has to be on whittling down those who won’t get playing time.

Como seek Jack, Engelhardt and Azon buyers

A transfer was already made official today, as defender Felipe Jack joined Serie B side Cremonese on loan for the rest of the season.

Fabrizio Romano claims that Southampton have started formal talks with Como for Azon, the 23-year-old Spanish striker who spent last season on loan at Ipswich Town.

The aim is to get a permanent sale for €9-10m, which is a big profit considering Como paid €2m to get him from Real Zaragoza in February 2025 and he never made a single appearance for the club.

The same pundit also states that both Club Brugge and SC Freiburg have made offers for German midfielder Engelhardt.

The Belgians have the upper hand with circa €10m on the table compared to the €8m for Freiburg, but the decision will be made soon.

Engelhardt also spent last season on loan, at Borussia Monchengladbach, and was bought from Fortuna Dusseldorf for €8m in 2024.

There are reports Argentina will start one Serie A player in the World Cup semi-final against England, but it is not going to be Lautaro Martinez of Inter or Como’s Nico Paz.

The big match kicks off in Atlanta on Wednesday at 20.00 UK time (21.00 CEST).

The winners go onto the Final on July 19 against either France or Spain to decide who lifts the trophy.

Argentina hoping to defend World Cup title

Argentina were pushed to the limit in the knockout rounds so far in the defence of the title they won in 2022.

They needed extra time to get the better of Cape Verde 3-2, fighting back from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2, then again requiring extra time to defeat 10-man Switzerland 3-1.

Inter striker Lautaro Martinez scored off the bench in the quarter-final, but he is again not expected to be in the starting XI tomorrow, with Julian Alvarez preferred as partner to Lionel Messi.

A big surprise mentioned in TyC Sports is that former Udinese midfielder Rodrigo De Paul could be dropped in favour of a more attacking figure.

This could be Giuliano Simeone, brother of Torino forward Giovanni, but more likely is Juventus winger Nico Gonzalez.

He spent this season on loan with Atletico Madrid, but the club has not activated the option to make it permanent.

Although he contributed one assist and featured in five of Argentina’s six games in this World Cup, Nico Gonzalez is yet to start.

Another potential switch for Argentina is to see Nahuel Molina preferred to Gonzalo Montiel at right-back.

Molina is another former Serie A player for Udinese, who has been linked with a possible return for Inter.

Argentina probable line-up: E Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Tagliafico; Nico Gonzalez, Paredes, Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez; Messi, Julian Alvarez

After turning down reported offers of over €25m for Trevoh Chalobah, it’s now reported in Italy that Chelsea are frustrated Inter and Como are looking elsewhere.

The defender is currently at the World Cup with England preparing for Wednesday’s semi-final against Argentina, but his future remains up in the air.

A bidding war had broken out for the 27-year-old, between Serie A sides Inter and Como, but the asking price of €35m has put them off.

Chalobah too expensive for Inter and Como

Another change was the Gazzetta dello Sport report last week that the two Italian clubs had agreed on a pact not to one-up each other, so Como backed off Chalobah and instead focused on Galatasaray defender Davinson Sanchez.

Now Sportitalia transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà and Sky Sport Italia both claim that Chelsea have contacted Inter and Como to ask if they are still interested in Chalobah.

The excessive asking price has put both off, so they are currently looking at other targets instead.

It is not just the Chelsea demand that is causing problems, but also the salary his agents are requesting.

Inter have the added problem of now needing to seek a new wing-back, seeing as Marco Palestra was poached by Chelsea and Anan Khalaili failed a medical.

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)

Argentina’s dramatic extra time win over Switzerland to set up a World Cup semi-final with England was not just a strain for the players on the pitch, but also Como’s Nico Paz off it.

The reigning world champions have stuttered throughout the tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Despite playing against 10 men after Breel Embolo’s red card, Argentina were still forced to go to extra time last night, eventually squeezing through 3-1 with Julian Alvarez’s curler and a late Lautaro Martinez goal.

Nico Paz feeling the stress

It took a lot out of the players on the field, and those off it too, as confirmed by Nico Paz.

The 21-year-old Como player revealed on social media that his wearable technology showed his stress levels as ‘high’ during the match, when he was just sitting on the bench.

The technology is worn by all players to monitor their vital signs as well as track their performances on the field.

Nico Paz has made two appearances in the World Cup so far, as a substitute in the 3-0 victory over Algeria, and then starting the 3-1 win over Jordan.

Argentina will play England in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday, with France taking on Spain on Tuesday.

The quarter-final stage of the 2026 World Cup is complete, and a total of six Serie A players will be progressing through to the tournament’s semi-finals, which will kick off with France vs. Spain on Tuesday evening. 

France eliminated Morocco 2-0 in their quarter-final on Tuesday, Spain overcame Belgium 2-1, England defeated Norway 2-1 in extra-time on Saturday night and Argentina needed the full 120 minutes again to get past Switzerland in the early hours of Sunday morning, eventually finishing at 3-1.

Now, only six Serie A players are left heading into the World Cup semi-finals. Four of them represent France and two represent Argentina. 

The France squad boasts Milan pair Mike Maignan and Adrien Rabiot, along with Roma midfielder Manu Kone and Inter forward Marcus Thuram. Argentina have Thuram’s regular strike partner Lautaro Martinez as well as Como superstar Nico Paz in their ranks.

A total of 15 Serie A players were eliminated at the quarter-final stage, including Norway’s quintet of Italian-based players: Morten Thorsby, Leo Ostigard, Marcus Holmgren Pedersen, Torbjorn Heggem and Kristian Thorstvedt. 

Belgium also had five Serie A players in their ranks, namely Napoli pair Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, Milan duo Koni De Winter and Alexis Saelemaekers and Atalanta’s Charles De Ketelaere.

Roma’s Neil El-Aynaoui (Morocco) and Switzerland quartet Manuel Akani (Inter), Remo Freuler (Bologna), Ardon Jashari (Milan) and Michel Aebischer (Pisa) were the other Italian-based players to be eliminated during the World Cup quarter-finals.

Which Serie A players are left standing at the 2026 World Cup?

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

Spain: None.

England: None.

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

Reports are growing that Como will improve their opening €20m offer for Galatasaray and Colombia international defender Davinson Sanchez.

There had already been Italian suggestions that the Lariani had turned towards the experienced centre-back, who turns 31 this weekend, after backing off Chelsea man Trevoh Chalobah.

Davinson Sanchez wanted by Como

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Como have already made an opening proposal to Galatasaray worth a total of around €20m including add-ons.

That might not be sufficient, as the Turkish side is holding out for closer to €25-30m, especially after his impressive 2026 World Cup campaign with Colombia.

This is not the only obstacle, because his salary of over €3m per season net is going to be a challenge for Como too.

The Turkish Super Lig is able to offer massive wage deals compared to Serie A because of the different taxation regime.

Galatasaray purchased Sanchez from Tottenham Hotspur in 2023 at a cost of €9.5m, six years after his move from Ajax to Spurs for €42m.

Reports in Italy claim that both Roma and Galatasaray have expressed an interest in signing Assane Diao from Como this summer, but it is the Turkish side who are preparing an offer for the Senegal international according to the latest updates. 

Galatasaray and Roma interested in Diao, offer being prepared in Turkey

According to reports from Matteo Moretto on Fabrizio Romano’s YouTube channel, Galatasaray have been in contact with Como and are ‘intending’ to submit an offer for the 20-year-old winger. 

This would likely be a paid loan deal with either an option or obligation to buy at a later date.

Earlier this week, there were also reports that Roma might be interested in picking up Diao this summer, following the news that their first-choice attacking target Mason Greenwood is set to join Fenerbahce instead. 

Reports from TMW claimed that it would take an offer in the region of €25m-€30m to convince Como into selling. 

Diao joined Como from Real Betis in January of 2025, arriving at a cost of €12m. The youngster made an immediate impression in Serie A, netting eight goals from his first 15 appearances in the Italian top flight, but a series of injuries from the end of that season onwards limited him to just 17 appearances and two goals in the league in 2025-26.

Como are preparing for their first ever season competing in the Champions League and Cesc Fabregas’s side have already committed over €100m on new players ahead of their maiden voyage into Europe’s most prestigious competition. 

Como’s summer spending doesn’t stop at Nico Paz

Como have the wealthiest ownership group in Serie A and have proved across the last few seasons that they are not afraid to spend significantly in order to jump start their lakeside project. 

The summer of 2026 has been no different and has been headlined by the €60m deal that Como have arranged with Real Madrid to keep Nico Paz at the club for at least another season. 

The Nico Paz saga had gone on for months across the 2025-26 season: Real Madrid had a low-cost buy-back option set at €9m this summer, which the Spaniards eventually decided to activate before selling Paz back to Como at a cost of €60m. The new deal includes another buy-back option in favour of Real Madrid, but now at €80m and only for the summer of 2027. 

• Read more: Why Como are able to spend €60m on Nico Paz despite expected FFP breach

Additionally, Como are set to welcome Yan Couto from Borussia Dortmund at a cost of around €20m. That comes after a deal for Brazilian full-back Kaiki, who has arrived on loan with an obligation to buy €14m. 

That brings us close to the €100m mark already, and that is before the signing of midfielder Luis Milla at a cost of around €6m is taken into account. La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that a deal for Mattia Liberali is expected to happen, which again, should cost around €6m. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that Como’s summer spending won’t stop there, either. Fabregas and his team are still looking to strengthen in defence with at least one, if not two new signings at the back, plus an alternative option to Tasos Douvikas at centre-forward.

This could bring the eventual bill to €150m for the summer of 2026.

Italian sources are confident Inter have a deal with Union Saint-Gilloise for Anan Khalaili worth €25m plus add-ons, including a bonus for Maccabi Haifa, and could have his medical this weekend.

The Nerazzurri dived onto the Israel international for the right wing to replace Real Madrid-bound Denzel Dumfries after missing out on first choice Marco Palestra to Chelsea.

Negotiations had been tricky and there were two previous proposals rejected by Union Saint-Gilloise, worth €20m plus add-ons, then €23m.

Khalaili to Inter gets over the line

However, Sportitalia, Tuttomercatoweb, Sky Sport Italia and Fabrizio Romano now believe an agreement has been reached worth €25m plus add-ons to reach the €30m asking price.

Above all, it includes a 15 per cent cut of the future sale fee for his previous club Maccabi Haifa, who had sold him to the Belgians in 2024 for €6.5m.

The right-back turns 22 in September and last season he was a key figure for USG, contributing six goals and six assists in 42 competitive games.

Italian reports believe Khalaili will be in Milan for his medical tests either tomorrow or Saturday.

Napoli had been close to an agreement earlier in the summer, but could not progress until first making sales, while Como also showed interest.

Inter have reportedly now had two offers for Anan Khalaili rejected, as they are still nowhere near the €30m asking price set by Union Saint-Gilloise, while Galatasaray now go for Liverpool’s Curtis Jones.

The Nerazzurri fans are having a very frustrating summer, as yet another target seems to be drifting away after weeks of negotiations and drip-feed improvements in rebuffed bids.

After losing Marco Palestra to Chelsea when he was down to the details with Atalanta, then seemingly priced out of Oumar Solet from Udinese, they risk another disappointment.

Khalaili still beyond Inter’s reach

Just minutes after Sky Sport Italia announced that Inter had made an improved offer worth €23m plus add-ons for Khalaili, Belgian transfer expert Sacha Tavolieri warned that Union Saint-Gilloise had already turned it down.

They know there is no shortage of interest in the Israel international right-back, who is also wanted by Como and Napoli just within Serie A.

Sky Sport Italia claimed the original Inter proposal was just €20m plus bonus, far too low to be taken seriously by the Belgian side.

It’s a slight improvement, but still not going to break this transfer deadlock for the Denzel Dumfries replacement.

Meanwhile, reports in Turkiye from Fanatik suggest Galatasaray are looking at Inter target Curtis Jones, with Liverpool demanding €40m for the sale of a player down to the last year of his contract.

Inter have reportedly lodged a new offer worth €23m plus add-ons for Union Saint-Gilloise wing-back Anan Khalaili, according to Sky Sport Italia.

The Israel international has agreed personal terms for a five-year contract worth €1.7m per season, but reaching an agreement with his club is proving trickier.

Sky Sport Italia transfer pundit Gianluca Di Marzio claims that the Nerazzurri have formulated a new proposal worth €23m plus performance-related bonuses.

It comes after the opening bid of €20m was rejected.

Inter edge closer to Khalaili asking price

The asking price for the player is €30m, as he impressed with six goals and as many assists in 52 competitive games for USG last season.

It remains to be seen if this will be sufficient, but Inter did receive a boost today with the Gazzetta dello Sport suggestion that Como agreed a transfer pact not to get into a bidding war over Khalaili or Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah.

There are also alternatives for the Nerazzurri in that role on the right, including Guela Doué, who plays for Strasbourg.

Khalaili is already quite far down the list, as Inter missed out on Marco Palestra to Chelsea.

The 21-year-old had originally been close to Napoli, but they cannot make new signings until first selling, so their strategy is stalled.

After clashing on so many transfer targets, including Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah and Anan Khalaili of Union SG, it’s reported Inter and Como have worked out a pact to avoid bidding wars.

The two clubs faced off in the Coppa Italia semi-final last season, but with both qualifying for the Champions League, they have found themselves chasing very similar targets on the market.

It was reported that they were both battling for Chelsea defender Chalobah, then Como showed an interest in Nerazzurri pick Khalaili, who was also in talks with Napoli.

Como and Inter make pact

Now La Gazzetta dello Sport claim that yesterday Como President Mirwan Suwarso and Inter President Beppe Marotta spoke on the telephone to discuss a pact of non-belligerence.

Effectively, if they are both chasing the same player on the transfer market, they promise not to spark a bidding war that pushes the price up for them both.

If Inter decide to step up their pursuit of Chalobah, then Como pledge to walk away and go for other targets, for example Galatasaray defender Davinson Sanchez.

The same goes for Khalaili, who is the Inter priority after selling Denzel Dumfries to Real Madrid, then missing out on Marco Palestra to Chelsea.

Como have asked Galatasaray for the availability of Davinson Sanchez, claims Sportitalia transfer pundit Alfredo Pedullà, as Trevoh Chalobah is considered too expensive at Chelsea.

The centre-back will turn 31 this weekend, although he is in no mood for celebrating after missing a penalty in Colombia’s Round of 16 World Cup shoot-out defeat to Switzerland.

It is no secret that Como are seeking a strong new central defender, and were in a bidding war with Inter over Chelsea’s Chalobah, but the €35m asking price was considered too steep.

Davinson Sanchez on Como radar

Another candidate has now emerged, so Sportitalia expert Pedullà maintains that Como contacted Galatasaray to ask for the availability of Davinson Sanchez.

Galatasaray only bought him from Tottenham Hotspur two years ago at a cost of €9.5m, after he had earned a €42m move from Ajax to Spurs in 2017.

Last season, he made 45 competitive appearances for the Turkish club, scoring two goals, including one in the 5-2 Champions League victory over Juventus.

The 2026 World Cup round of 16 is now complete, and heading into the quarter-finals, Milan’s five remaining players mean that they are the best represented Serie A side at the tournament in North America. 

France, Morocco, Spain, Belgium, England, Norway, Argentina and Switzerland are the eight sides that will compete in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals, which will kick off on Thursday evening: France vs. Morocco the first game on the schedule.

In terms of Serie A representation, Milan have provided the most quarter-finalists of any Italian team with France duo Adrien Rabiot and Mike Maignan, Belgian pair Koni De Winter and Alexis Saelemaekers and Switzerland midfielder Ardon Jashari. 

Inter are the second-most represented Serie A side in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals with three representatives in the form of France’s Marcus Thuram, Argentina’s Lautaro Martinez and Switzerland’s Manuel Akanji.

Roma, Napoli and Bologna each have two representatives: The Giallorossi with Neil El-Aynaoui (Morocco) and Manu Kone (France), the Partenopei with Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku of Belgium and The Rossoblu with Norway’s Torbjorn Heggem and Switzerland’s Remo Freuler. 

Atalanta, Como, Genoa, Torino, Sassuolo, Cremonese and Pisa all have one player each left at the 2026 World Cup.

Which Serie A players are left at the 2026 World Cup?

Milan: Adrien Rabiot (France), Mike Maignan (France), Koni De Winter (Belgium), Alexis Saelemaekers (Belgium), Ardon Jashari (Switzerland).

Inter: Marcus Thuram (France), Lautaro Martinez (Argentina), Manuel Akanji (Switzerland).

Roma: Manu Kone (France), Neil El-Aynaoui (Morocco).

Napoli: Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium), Romelu Lukaku (Belgium).

Bologna: Torbjorn Heggem (Norway), Remo Freuler (Switzerland). 

Atalanta: Charles De Ketelaere (Belgium).

Como: Nico Paz (Argentina).

Genoa: Leo Ostigard (Norway).

Torino: Marcus Holmgren Pedersen (Norway). 

Sassuolo: Kristian Thorstvedt (Norway).

Cremonese: Morten Thorsby (Norway).

Pisa: Michel Aebischer (Switzerland).

21 Serie A and Serie B representatives are left standing as the 2026 World Cup moves into the quarter-final stages following the final two round of 16 ties on Tuesday night. 

With no Italy at the tournament in North America, Belgium and Norway might be the two nations for the Serie A neutral to support heading into the quarter-finals. They have the most ‘Italian’ representatives in their squads with five players apiece. 

France and Switzerland are also well represented by Serie A and Serie B talents, with four players in each of their squads. 

Argentina have two Serie A stars in their ranks with Lautaro Martinez and Nico Paz, while Morocco’s sole ‘Italian’ representative is Roma’s Neil El-Aynaoui. Spain and England are without Serie A representation. 

But we want to know who you will be rooting for heading into the final eight at the 2026 World Cup. Let us know in the comments below.

Which Serie A players are left at the 2026 World Cup?

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

Morocco: Neil El-Aynaoui (Roma).

Spain: None.

Belgium: Kevin De Bruyne (Napoli), Romelu Lukaku (Napoli), Koni De Winter (Milan), Charles De Ketelaere (Atalanta), Alexis Saelemaekers (Milan).

Norway: Morten Thorsby (Cremonese), Leo Ostigard (Genoa), Marcus Holmgren Pedersen (Torino), Torbjorn Heggem (Bologna), Kristian Thorstvedt (Sassuolo).

England: None.

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

Switzerland: Manuel Akanji (Inter), Remo Freuler (Bologna), Ardon Jashari (Milan), Michel Aebischer (Pisa).

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