Ederson has personally confirmed that his move to Manchester United is effectively done, with the Atalanta midfielder declaring “it’s practically almost all sorted” in an interview with Sky Sport, leaving only the formality of a signature to complete what will be one of the summer’s most significant Serie A departures.

The Brazilian, currently on World Cup duty with the Seleção, is determined to keep his focus on the tournament before turning his attention fully to his club future.

“I have to make the most of this moment,” he said, with quotes via TuttoSport.

“I am here and it is a wonderful thing, something you must always live to the fullest.”

His involvement so far has been limited, having started from the bench in the opening game against Morocco before picking up minutes in the victory over Haiti.

Atalanta pocket mega profit as Ederson ends four-year Bergamo chapter

The deal will see Manchester United pay approximately €45 million to Atalanta, another significant capital gain for the Bergamo club, who signed Ederson from Salernitana for a fraction of that fee.

The 26-year-old has been one of Serie A’s standout midfielders across four seasons in Bergamo, and United are signing a player at the peak of his powers.

The formal completion of the transfer is expected once Brazil’s World Cup campaign concludes.

Ruben Amorim wants to bring Morten Hjulmand to Milan this summer, with the Danish midfielder identified as the ideal profile to anchor the midfield in his new 3-4-2-1 system, and the player is available at a significant discount on his €80 million release clause.

Hjulmand joined Sporting Lisbon from Lecce for €20 million in the summer of 2023 and has since become one of the club’s most important figures, being handed the captaincy and nearly tripling his market value.

His development at Sporting was shaped largely by Amorim himself, making the reunion angle a powerful one as the Portuguese coach begins his Milan project, as per CalcioMercato.

Sporting’s promise to Hjulmand could unlock €45m Milan deal as Ricci considered ‘at-home’ alternative

The key financial detail is a private agreement Hjulmand reached with Sporting twelve months ago, in exchange for agreeing to stay in Lisbon for another season, the club promised to let him leave in 2026 for a preferential fee of €45 million rather than the full release clause.

That promise now puts Milan in a potentially strong position, though the fee remains a significant outlay for a club without Champions League revenue.

Tactically, Hjulmand represents a fundamental shift from Allegri’s low-lying playmaker to a more transitional, ball-winning regista, precisely what Amorim’s high-pressing system demands.

Samuele Ricci, who spent the vast majority of his career operating as a more defensive-minded midfielder rather than a mezzala, is also being considered as the ‘at-home’ solution for the Rossoneri.

Nicolò Zaniolo has rediscovered his best form following a productive season at Udinese, five goals and five assists in Serie A, and is now attracting a three-way battle between Juventus, Como and Milan, with a wage dispute with his current club threatening to push him towards the exit.

According to Tuttosport, Udinese paid approximately €5 million to permanently sign Zaniolo from Galatasaray, though the Turks retain 50% of any future resale fee.

The problem lies in wages, a gap of €600,000-700,000 per season separates the player’s demands from what Udinese are currently prepared to offer, with the club unwilling to renegotiate the existing €1.2 million net deal that expires in June 2029. It is a standoff that is rapidly opening the door to outside interest.

Juventus weigh Adzic swap as Fabregas eyes Zaniolo for Como’s Champions League debut

Juventus are sounding out Udinese, who are asking €15 million, and could include young talent Vasilije Adzic as part of any deal, a profile that appeals greatly to Udinese sporting director Nani.

For Juventus, Zaniolo represents a credible and affordable alternative to their primary trequartista target Brahim Diaz, for whom they are prepared to wait considerably longer given the Real Madrid situation.

Como’s Cesc Fabregas is equally keen, actively seeking talented Italian players at accessible prices ahead of the club’s debut Champions League campaign.

Milan’s interest is confirmed by agent Vigorelli’s recent visit to the club’s headquarters, though the Rossoneri’s lack of a confirmed sporting director makes their pursuit harder to structure at this stage.

Udinese, for their part, would ideally prefer to keep both Zaniolo and Keinan Davis as the foundation of their attack.

Real Madrid’s decision to make Nico Paz available for €60 million has thrown Inter’s summer planning into fresh uncertainty, with the possibility of signing the Argentine forcing the club to fundamentally reconsider their approach to the midfield market, and potentially shelving their pursuit of Curtis Jones entirely.

According to Tuttosport, Inter had previously stepped back from the Paz race, redirecting their budget towards the Palestra operation.

But Madrid’s unexpected openness to a sale, driven by their own recruitment priorities under José Mourinho, who has Bastoni on his defensive shortlist, has reopened conversations at the Nerazzurri.

The challenge is financial: signing Paz would require an extraordinary budget injection from owners Oaktree, on top of the sales already planned.

Paz as Inter’s Luis Alberto could make Jones signing redundant this summer

This is where the Jones situation becomes directly relevant. Inter had offered Liverpool €20 million for the English midfielder, but Tuttosport reports that the club are now considering a tactical pivot, deploying Paz as an offensive mezzala in the mould of Luis Alberto during Inzaghi’s Lazio years.

If Paz fills that creative midfield role, Jones becomes unnecessary, and his €20 million budget can be redirected towards the Paz operation.

To fund the deal further, Inter would need a significant sales campaign. Alexandar Stankovic‘s outstanding season at Bruges could generate around €40 million, while Frattesi, Luis Henrique, Pavard and Carlos Augusto are all candidates for departure.

It is an ambitious restructuring, but one the club are prepared to consider if Paz’s availability proves genuine.

Inter defender Manuel Akanji insists Kevin De Bruyne can still have a ‘significant impact’ in Italian football as the Belgian was ‘unlucky’ in his first season at Napoli.

Inter centre-back Akanji spoke about his former Manchester City teammate De Bruyne during his latest interview with Gazzetta.

Akanji: De Bruyne can still have an impact in Serie A in 2026-27

“I think he can still have a significant impact in Italian football, absolutely,” Akanji said.

“Kevin is an extraordinary player and also a great friend of mine. This season, he was unlucky because an injury kept him out for a long time. When he returned, the title race was already decided. I would like to face Belgium and play against him, as it hasn’t happened often so far.”

Just a few weeks ago, De Bruyne caused outrage in Italy when saying that he was happy Antonio Conte had left Napoli.

The Italian tactician’s assistant Cristian Stellini hit back, saying that the Belgian had never shown enthusiasm during his first season at the Stadio Maradona.

Napoli are now waiting for Massimiliano Allegri to be released from Milan. Technically, the Italian is still under contract with the Rossoneri following his sacking at the end of the 2025-26 campaign.

Napoli have reached an agreement with an experienced Italian coach and are waiting for him to terminate his contract with the Rossoneri before starting his tenure at the Stadio Maradona.

Brazilian legend Ronaldinho has signed with Italy’s third-division side Ravenna, and, according to Italian sources, he’ll make a brief appearance in a competitive match and become a minority shareholder in the club.

Former Milan and Barcelona star Ronaldinho has signed a contract with Serie C side Ravenna in Italy.

Will Ronaldinho play in Italy’s third division?

The move was confirmed by the Brazilian footballer, Ravenna’s President Ignazio Cipriani and vice president Ariedo Braida. The latter had already signed Ronaldinho from Barcelona to Milan in 2008.

Sky Sport Italia and Fabrizio Romano explain the details of the deal, saying that Ronaldinho, 46, won’t technically be part of the squad or travel with the team for away matches in the 2026-27 campaign.

However, the Brazilian will still be closely involved with the club and the team.

He’ll make a brief appearance in a Serie C game during the season and become a minority shareholder in the club.

In addition, Ravenna’s 2026-27 kit will feature Ronaldinho’s iconic R10 logo.

Ronaldinho will be officially unveiled at a special event in Miami on June 23 and travel to Ravenna around Augst 20 to attend the team’s unveiling.

Carlo Ancelotti says Neymar ‘will be available’ against Scotland and confirms more Brazil changes for their final World Cup group stage game.

Brazil beat Haiti 3-0 on Friday night and are now preparing for their final group stage game against Scotland on Wednesday, June 24, with kick-off at 11 pm BST.

Ancelotti confirms Neymar’s return vs. Scotland

Italian tactician Ancelotti discussed his potential moves for the next Brazil match during a press conference last night: “I don’t want to give a definitive identity; I might change something in the next match,” he said via Gazzetta.

“We want to beat Scotland to finish top of the group; that would be important. We will prepare for it, but it won’t be easy. Scotland have very defined characteristics; they caused Morocco problems and can do the same to us. But we must remain calm, composed, and focused on our game. The psychologist is working with us and is helping us.”

Neymar has missed the opening two games due to injury, but will make his return in the next game: “He’s fine; he’ll train alone for a day and then return to the squad. He’ll be available for Scotland,” confirmed Ancelotti.

Barcelona winger Raphinha, on the other hand, was forced to come off with an injury: “We are waiting for the tests to understand what he has,” Ancelotti said.

Lastly, the Italian tactician gave his verdict on the controversial hydration breaks at the World Cup, already criticised by many, including Inter defender Manuel Akanji: “I like them; with the intense heat, players can recover, and we coaches can adjust things,” Ancelotti concluded.

Tuttosport reports that Juventus are keeping a close eye on USMNT and PSV Eindhoven striker Ricardo Pepi, as well as Egypt and Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush.

Juventus are working to reshape their attack in the 2026-27 campaign, with their primary targets being Atletico Madrid’s Alexander Sorloth and PSG’s Randal Kolo Muani.

Two new targets in attack for Juventus

According to Tuttosport, however, the Serie A giants are also considering alternatives, including PSV forward Pepi and Manchester City’s attacker Marmoush.

Both players are featuring at the World Cup for the USMNT and Egypt, respectively, and Juventus are keeping a close eye on the pair during the tournament.

The Turin-based paper reports that PSV are open to discussing Pepi’s transfer for a fee between €25m and €30m, while Marmoush’s future at Manchester City will depend on Enzo Maresca’s verdict on him.

Juventus have already opened talks with Atletico Madrid over Sorloth and with PSG over Kolo Muani, but haven’t yet contacted either PSV or Man City.

Furthermore, according to Gazzetta, the Bianconeri still hope to extend Dusan Vlahovic’s contract, having sent a final contract offer to the Serbia international.

Inter and Switzerland defender Manuel Akanji admits he’s ‘not a big fan’ of hydration breaks at the World Cup, but says the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles is the best he’s ever played in.

Inter defender Akanji, a former Manchester City star, gave an interview to Gazzetta dello Sport while on international duty with the Switzerland national team at the 2026 World Cup.

Akanji’s side secured one win and one draw in the opening two group stage games.

Akanji opens up about Inter, Chivu, hydration breaks and more

The Swiss defender has just completed his first season at Inter, winning the domestic double at San Siro, lifting the Scudetto and Coppa Italia.

“Inter is a great school, a university that helps you grow in various aspects. I am very grateful to those who wanted me here, and I am happy to stay and win more with this coach,” he said.

Safe to say Akanji has enjoyed working with Cristian Chivu in 2025-26.

“I hadn’t often experienced playing in a back three at club level; it had only happened with the national team. But at Inter, I had to get to know the position much better and work with new teammates,” he said.

“Now I think differently in various game situations. If we were to switch to a back five in the future, I would know exactly what to do.

“Chivu understands players very well because he himself was a top-level footballer and experienced the same situations we are going through now,” Akanji continued.

“Furthermore, he has won many trophies with Inter and knows exactly what the club needs. He is also a very communicative and empathetic coach: he often talks to us players and, importantly, he is willing to listen to us. This is precisely what creates an excellent relationship with all of us.”

Italy were supposed in the same group as Switzerland at the World Cup, but the Azzurri were knocked out by Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off final.

Bosnia lost 4-1 to Switzerland just a few days ago, in a match played at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.

“Well, it’s truly fantastic. I told my friends that if we’re talking about the overall experience, this is the best stadium I’ve ever played in,” Akanji said.

“I’ve seen many, but SoFi is incredible. When you enter and look at everything around you, you are impressed and understand why it cost so much. I’m even an NFL enthusiast, but I’m neither a Rams nor a Chargers fan, the teams that play here.

“I support the Atlanta Falcons, and I’ve already been to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Georgia, which is very nice, but it doesn’t reach these levels. However, when it comes to football alone, playing at San Siro is simply unparalleled; it remains an incredible feeling.”

Regarding the World Cup, Akanji was asked for his thoughts on the controversial hydration breaks, which seem aimed more at boosting sponsorship revenue than at ensuring players’ health.

“No, I’m not a big fan. I understand the organisational and commercial reasons; I understand that advertising and other activities can be inserted during those breaks,” Akanji said.

“But as a footballer, I think they take away from the match’s rhythm. If a team is struggling, a break can help them by allowing tactical adjustments, and conversely, it can interrupt a favourable moment.”

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus have sent a final contract offer to their star striker Dusan Vlahovic, proposing a one-year deal with an €8m salary, including add-ons.

Juventus have reportedly made one final move to retain their striker Vlahovic, according to Gazzetta.

Final Juventus contract offer to Vlahovic

Vlahovic is available on a free transfer as his current deal at the Allianz Stadium expires at the end of the month, yet the Serbia international hasn’t yet reached an agreement with any other club.

Juventus have recently changed their CEO, bringing in Giovanni Carnevali to replace Damien Comolli, and the new Bianconeri executive has now sent the club’s final proposal to Vlahovic.

The Serbian striker rejected Comolli’s €6m-a-year proposal earlier this month, but the fact that his salary demands have not been matched by any top club in Europe makes Juventus confident that Vlahovic could ultimately remain in Turin, for at least one more season.

According to the report, Juventus have offered a one-year deal, but are also open to discussing a two-year contract with a salary of €8m including add-ons.

Multiple sources in Italy claim that Inter have resumed their interest in Nico Paz, given that Real Madrid are eager to bring the Argentine back from Como and put him on the market for €60m.

Inter still hope to sign Nico Paz this summer, as the Argentine’s future at either Como or Real Madrid is uncertain.

Inter resume interest in Nico Paz

Corriere dello Sport reported on Friday that Real Madrid were upset by Nico Paz’s decision to force his stay at Como for 2026-27, with the Merengues warning Cesc Fabregas’ side that they’d need €60m to retain Paz for a further campaign.

Football Italia discussed the transfer situation of Nico Paz in our latest transfer show on YouTube, which you can watch below.

Today’s update from Corriere della Sera, Tuttosport, and Corriere dello Sport is that Paz’s situation has once again sparked Inter’s interest.

The Nerazzurri are longtime admirers of the Argentine, and their vice-president, Javier Zanetti, is a good friend and former Argentina teammate of Nico Paz’s father, Pablo.

Zanetti and Pablo Paz were even part of the Argentina World Cup squad at the 1998 World Cup.

All three Italian sources report that Real Madrid still want to activate their €10m buy-back clause on Paz, then sell him for €60m.

Como can technically afford this move, but it may raise issues with Financial Fair Play regulations.

Inter, on the other hand, are in advanced talks with Atalanta to sign Marco Palestra for over €50m, so signing Nico Paz would require an extra budget from club owners Oaktree or the sale of some players such as Aleksandar Stankovic, Carlos Augusto, Andy Diouf, Luis Henrique, Davide Frattesi and Ange-Yoan Bonny.

Italy 2006 World Cup winner Marco Materazzi insists Roberto Mancini’s return as Italy’s head coach ‘could be an important solution’ and feels José Mourinho will ‘put pressure on Barcelona’ as the new Real Madrid coach.

Former Inter and Italy defender Materazzi gave an interview to Corriere dello Sport, speaking about Mancini’s potential return as Italy’s head coach, among other things.

Materazzi: Mancini ‘an important solution’ for Italy

“He left the national team a few years ago,” said the ex-defender, who played under Mancini at Inter.

“If he has the desire to return and take on a big responsibility, he could be an important part of the solution.”

Another ex-Materazzi coach, Mourinho, is making headlines this summer after returning to Real Madrid for a second stint.

“He is the right coach for Real Madrid. Perhaps his playing style is not aesthetically exciting, but it brings results. He’ll break the balance and put some pressure on Barcelona,” Materazzi said.

Inter’s city rivals Milan failed to qualify for the Champions League last season and are still in talks to appoint new football directors after sacking Giorgio Furlani, Igli Tare and Geoffrey Moncada at the end of the 2025-26 season.

Materazzi already taunted RedBird’s advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic, calling him the “biggest Inter fan in history”, and when asked for a solution to solve the Rossoneri’s issues, he replied: “Even if I had it, as an Inter fan, I wouldn’t say it.”

Brazilian legend Ronaldinho, 46, has signed with Italian Serie C side Ravenna, but it’s still unclear whether he’ll actually play a competitive match in Italy’s third division.

Former Milan and Barcelona striker Ronaldinho has signed a contract with Italian Serie C side Ravenna.

• Read more – The details behind Ronaldinho’s move to Italy’s third division

Gazzetta reports that the 46-year-old will be unveiled at a special event in Miami on June 23.

Ronaldinho signs with Italian club at 46: ‘Same smile’

“New colours, same smile,” Ronaldinho said.

“I can’t wait to be able to dance on the ball again to write a new story together with Ignazio and the whole Cipriani family. Football has always been a source of joy for me, I want to bring the same spirit to Ravenna.”

Ravenna’s owner Ignazio Cipriani added: “I spent 24 years of my life in the United States, but I still consider Ravenna my home. Acquiring Ronaldinho is something absolutely extraordinary for the club; he was my idol, and his impact on football goes beyond what he did on the pitch.”

Ravenna will play the 2026-27 campaign in Italy’s third division under head coach Andrea Mandorlini, who also has Serie A experience in the dug-out.

It’s still unclear, however, whether Ronaldinho will actually play a competitive match in Serie C.

The club’s vice-president, Ariedo Braida, a former Milan sporting director who already signed Ronaldinho at Milan in 2008, told Nicolò Schira (via Corriere Romagna): “Ronaldinho will do a marketing event with us but will not play for Ravenna in Serie C next season. Also because he’s 46, I wish he could still play.

“Dinho was a phenomenon and was a wonderful player. I’ve had a wonderful relationship with him since his time at Milan, but he won’t play in Serie C with us.”

Braida, however, later gave another interview to ANSA, refusing to rule out the possibility that Ronaldinho will actually play in Italy’s third division: “Ronaldinho is a timeless champion. He has signed with Ravenna and, for a club like ours, it’s an extraordinary coup,” he said.

“Over the next few days, there will be an event to unveil this extraordinary character. Will he play? We’ll see, but it’s not ruled out. As I already said, he is a timeless champion.”

Ronaldinho made his last competitive appearance with Fluminense in 2015, over ten years ago. A former PSG, Barcelona and Milan star, the ex-Brazil international scored 26 goals in 95 appearances with Milan, where he played for two and a half years, from the summer of 2008 until January 2011.

Ronaldinho won the Champions League with Barcelona and the 2002 World Cup with the Brazil national team.

Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil secured a 3-0 win over Haiti in the second group stage game of the World Cup, but Vincenzo Montella’s Turkey lost 1-0 to Paraguay and faced elimination.

It’s been a night of mixed feelings for Italian coaches at the World Cup, with one, Montella, knocked out after just two rounds.

His Turkey side lost 1-0 to Paraguay despite playing the entire second half a man down. The South Americans took the lead in the second minute through Matias Galarza. Serie A stars Hakan Calhanoglu and Kenan Yildiz played the full 90 minutes but were unable to turn the game around.

World Cup: Montella’s Turkey eliminated

Turkey already lost the opening round 2-0 to Australia, so their second consecutive loss means they are now eliminated.

“It’s truly incredible; we put down two high-level performances, making 65 shots towards the goal without being able to score. We didn’t concede much, but even that little was capitalised,” Montella said via Gazzetta.

“Sincerely, something like that had never happened to me in 35 years of football. It is clear that, in these two matches, fate was not on our side. However, it cannot be said that the spirit, the soul or the will to fight was lacking. The team gave it their all until the last second. We tried every way, but it didn’t go.

“I feel very sorry for the Turkish people, who had great expectations and great ambitions. I feel sorry for the Federation and the president, who have always been close to us and supported us at all times. And I’m especially sorry for the footballers, because they left everything on the pitch.”

While Turkey have already faced elimination from Group D, Ancelotti’s Brazil secure a comfortable 3-0 win over Haiti, scoring all three goals in the first half.

Matheus Cunha scored the opening two goals, with Vini Jr. netting the third for Brazil, his second at the 2026 World Cup.

“I think that for this game Matheus Cunha’s position was a good one to create problems for the defence. He also filtered passes very well and moved into position really well. He can be an option. I don’t want a clear identity, because in the next game we may change,” Ancelotti said at full-time.

“He came into the World Cup well, in excellent condition. We don’t expect it to be Vinícius’s World Cup; we expect it to be Brazil’s World Cup.

“We moved Vini a little more inside, leaving the wide play more to Douglas Santos, who did very well. Vini is dangerous not only one-on-one, but also when attacking in behind. Attacking in behind through the centre of the pitch is more dangerous — he scored a goal and provided an assist.

“We were much better in the first half, with more effectiveness up front. In the second half we had more control. We had many opportunities; we could have scored more goals. Overall it was a good game.”

In the other Group C game last night, Morocco beat Scotland 1-0, so Brazil and Morocco are now the group leaders with four points, followed by Scotland with three and Haiti with none.

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Ronaldinho signs with Ravenna at 46

Amorim calls Rabiot and Maignan

Trust Milan

The coach calls the French camp to convince the two top players to stay. His pupil Hjulmand dreams of the Devil

Aknji and Inter: ‘We’ll win again with Chivu.’

The defender: ‘Happy to stay here.’ After Palestra, also Jones and Solet

The American dream: the USMNT beats Australia, Morocco crush Scotland

Corriere dello Sport

The Argentine doesn’t want to be a substitute at Real Madrid

Inter to Paz

Budget for Nico: from Frattesi to Diouf

It’s a complicated deal; the threat is the Premier League. Perez asks for 60m. Luis Henrique departing too. Stankovic and Bonny on hold. Palestra incoming, then Solet and Jones.

Italian football mourns Protti

Farewell, sweet Tzar

He was 58, elegant and strong, an example to everyone. Moving testament: ‘This wonderful journey has reached the final whistle.’

David wakes up: now Juventus do the counting

Tottenham and Lyon move. Carnevali sets the price: 30m

DeLa’s mission to De Bruyne and Lukaku

Aurelio the special fan in Los Angeles. Meret’s future is decided: he stays in Napoli

Roma-Greenwood: ball in D’Amico’s court

The director has the green light to operate: immediately in action. Friedkin calls McCourt, owner of OM.

‘Fans ask for more young players, stadiums and football free to watch.’

Incredible Ronaldinho: on the field with Ravenna.

Tuttosport

Protti’s death, loved by everyone, moves the world of football

Igor, a world of love

‘This wonderful journey has reached the final whistle,’ his farewell message. Diagnosed with cancer, he was 58. He was the Serie A top-goal scorer (the only one in history with a relegated team, Bari), B and C. The last farewell at the Livorno stadium.

Juve, World Cup deals

David’s awakening makes Carnevali happy on the market: eyes on Pepi of PSG and Marmoush of Man City.

Canada’s hat-trick against Qatar makes Juventus breathe a sigh of relief about a sale. In the plan for the attack, the alternatives to Sorloth and Kolo Muani (with the potential Vlahovic renewal in the background) are the American and the Egyptian, moving to pole position. Miretti is involved in negotiations with Bologna over Lucumì. Udinese ask for 15m for Zaniolo.

Obrador and Toro, it’s not over!

Inter try a Paz coup

Real: buy-back and then sale

The Spaniards want to put the Argentine on the market for 60m. Como is surprised; Oaktree thinks about it.

Koné, what a shock: ‘We heard the bone breaking.’

Dreams and marketing: Ronaldinho signs with Ravenna in Serie C!

Reports in Italy claim that Bologna are keen to discuss the futures of three players with Juventus, including midfielder Fabio Miretti, who could potentially be allowed to leave the Allianz Stadium this summer. 

Report Bologna interested in Miretti and Joao Mario return from Juventus

According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Miretti is among the list of midfielders of interest to Bologna ahead of the summer transfer window. The 22-year-old is reportedly of interest to several Serie A sides, including the likes of Como, Fiorentina and Lazio as well. 

However, according to Friday’s updates from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Bologna have re-established contact with Juventus over the last few hours and Miretti is said to be interested in the move. 

Reports back in May suggested that Juventus would listen to offers in the region of €20m for the homegrown Bianconeri midfielder. 

Meanwhile, Bologna are said to be keen on bringing Joao Mario back from Juventus for 2026-27 after spending the second half of the 2025-26 season on loan with the Rossoblu. 

As it was during the January transfer window, Bologna are also keen to offload Emil Holm to the Bianconeri if Joao Mario is to come back. Luciano Spalletti is also said to be keen on the idea of keeping hold of the Swede.

Reports in Italy claim that Cesc Fabregas and Como are closing in on their first signing of the summer transfer window, but it is a case of one in, one out, as Sergi Roberto says his farewells after a two-year spell at the Stadio Sinigaglia. 

According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Como are discussing the final details of a deal to sign 23-year-old full-back Kaiki Bruno da Silva, commonly referred to as Kaiki, from Brazilian side Cruzeiro. 

The left-sided defender has made 75 league appearances for Cruzeiro and was handed his first cap for the Brazil national team by Carlo Ancelotti during an international friendly against Croatia on April 1. 

According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Como are set to welcome Kaiki on an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy for €15m. 

Kaiki close to Como as Sergi Roberto says farewell 

While Como close in on the signing of Kaiki, one of their senior servants, Sergi Roberto, is leaving the club at the end of his contract after spending the last two seasons in Serie A, and has recently bid his farewells to the club on social media. 

“I arrived when the club had just earned promotion to Serie A, full of excitement for a new challenge. Today, I leave with the club having qualified for the Champions League, something that seemed like a dream when the journey began,” Sergi Roberto wrote on Instagram. 

“Looking back, I feel incredibly proud of everything we achieved together. Not only because of the results on the pitch, but because of the people I met along the way.

“From the very first day, my family and I felt welcomed and loved. Como became our home and these years will always hold a special place in our hearts. We have created memories and friendships that will stay with us forever. 

“I want to thank my teammates, the coaching staff, everyone working behind the scenes and all the fans for your support, trust and affection throughout this journey. 

“Como will always be a very important part of my life and my career. I leave with nothing but gratitude and with the certainty that this club has a very bright future ahead. Thank you for everything. Once Lariano, always Lariano. Forza Como!”

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Mauricio Pochettino has urged for calm following the news that Christian Pulisic will not be able to feature in his nation’s upcoming World Cup group stage match against Australia and insists: ‘He was training in the morning and the feelings are good’. 

Pochettino reacts after leaving Pulisic out of USA vs. Australia squad

Pulisic has been left out of USA’s matchday squad altogether ahead of their second group stage match at the 2026 World Cup, kicking off against Australia at 20.00 BST.

The Milan attacker withdrew at half-time of the USA’s opening match of the 2026 World Cup: An eventual 4-1 win over Paraguay. The player and coach insisted that this was solely on precautionary grounds following a knock in training, but it appears that the issue was severe enough to keep Pulisic out of the squad for Friday evening’s match against Australia. 

Speaking to Fox Sports ahead of kick-off, USMNT head coach Pochettino provided a brief update on the condition of the injured Milan star. 

“Today he was training in the morning and the feelings are good,” Pochettino disclosed. “We hope that he can be ready as soon as possible to be selected again and be part of the team.” 

There is still some Serie A representation in the USA line-up on Friday evening as Juventus’s Weston McKennie keeps his place in the line-up. Former Milan right-back Sergino Dest is also in the USMNT side and former Juventus forward Timothy Weah is named among the substitutes. 

Parma’s Alessandro Circati is starting for Australia, but former Italy youth international Cristian Volpato (Sassuolo) starts on the bench.

Click here to see the USA vs. Australia line-ups in full.

Mauricio Pochettino and the USMNT will have to do without their star attacker, Milan’s Christian Pulisic, who has been ruled out of Friday evening’s 2026 World Cup group stage match against Australia. 

Pulisic was substituted off at half-time during the USA’s 2026 World Cup opener against Paraguay last week, and though both the player and his head coach insisted that this was only on precautionary grounds, the issue is severe enough to rule ‘Captain America’ out of the squad altogether for the Australia clash. 

There is still some Serie A representation in the USA side in the form of versatile Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie. Former Milan full-back Sergino Dest also keeps his place in Pochettino’s XI. 

Parma’s Alessandro Circati is included in the Australia XI, but former Italy youth international Cristian Volpato is named among the substitutes. 

Kick-off is due at 20.00 BST.

USA vs. Australia: Confirmed line-ups as Pulisic ruled out

USA (4-2-3-1): Freese; Freeman, Ream, Richards, A.Robinson; Adams, McKennie; Dest, Tillman, Balogun; Pepi. 

Subs: Turner, Brady, Trusty, M.Robinson, Afrsten, McKenzie, Scally, Reyna, Berhalter, Roldan, Aaronson, Wright, Weah, Zendejas. 

Australia (5-4-1): Beach; Italiano, Souttar, Burgess, Bos, Circati; Leckie, O’Neill, Okon-Enstler, Velupillay; Toure. 

Subs: Ryan, Izzo, Degenek, Geria, Trewin, Behich, Herrington, Metcalfe, Devlin, Irvine, Hrustic, Mabil, Irankunda, Volpato, Yengi.

Stefan De Vrij will be out of contract at Inter after June 30, and Friday’s reports indicate that the Netherlands international will not be signing a new deal in San Siro. 

De Vrij expected to leave Inter on free transfer

De Vrij is one of several senior Nerazzurri players whose contracts will be expiring in less than a fortnight’s time, along with the likes of Yann Sommer, Francesco Acerbi and Matteo Darmian. 

Unlike Sommer, Acerbi and Darmian, the 34-year-old De Vrij had been offered the opportunity to extend his stay in San Siro and has been taking his time to evaluate his next steps. 

According to the latest updates from Calciomercato.com, all signs point towards De Vrij leaving Inter on a free transfer upon the expiry of his contract at the end of this month. 

The former Lazio and Feyenoord defender reportedly has an offer on the table from Greek Super League side Panathinaikos and the Dutchman is said to be sold on the idea of Athens as his next destination. 

Friday’s reports claim that Panathinaikos have presented De Vrij with a two-year contract offer worth €3m per season in wages.

Friday’s reports claim that Juventus have been in contact with the agent of Paulo Dybala regarding a sensational return to Turin in 2026-27 despite the ongoing negotiations over a new contract with Roma. 

Report: Juventus request information on Dybala

Dybala spent seven trophy-laden careers with the Bianconeri, winning the Serie A title five times, the Coppa Italia four times, the Supercoppa Italiana twice and reaching the final of the 2016-17 Champions League before joining Roma on a free transfer in the summer of 2022.

Dybala’s current contract with Roma expires at the end of the month, but the Giallorossi have long been discussing a renewal with ‘La Joya’, who will have to accept a cut in wages from the reported €7m base salary he has been earning for the last two seasons. 

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma are currently offering Dybala, who will turn 33 in November, a net salary of €2.5m per season, while the player and his entourage are reportedly holding out for €3m per season plus bonuses. This would be for a one-year contract with an option to extend for a further season. 

However, Dybala and his agents have not fully closed the doors to opportunities elsewhere, and according to Friday’s updates, Juventus are among the clubs who have been in contact with the player’s representatives to discuss the financial details of a potential deal. 

For now, this has been described as an ‘exploratory’ call, and it remains to be seen whether or not Juventus will follow up on this initial sign of interest.

Get today’s transfer updates with the Football Italia Transfer Show on YouTube with fresh news on Paulo Dybala, Nico Paz, Curtis Jones and much more.

The new episode of the Football Italia Transfer Show has dropped on our YouTube channel.

Football Italia Transfer Show: July 19, 2026

It’s been another day with plenty of juicy updates from Serie A, starting with Corriere dello Sport’s report that Nico Paz’s decision to stay at Como for one more season has upset Real Madrid, who still want to bring the Argentine back to the Bernabeu and have warned Cesc Fabregas’ side that they’ll need to pay €60m to remove Madrid’s buy-back option.

According to Gazzetta, Juventus have sounded out Paulo Dybala’s availability to return to Turin as contract extension talks between La Joya and the Giallorossi are still stalling and the striker’s contract expires on June 30, 2026.

Inter are keen on Liverpool’s Curtis Jones, but the Reds are reluctant to let the Englishman leave for less than €30m.

Get the most relevant updates on the Football Italia Transfer Show. Watch the full episode below.

Milan’s hunt for a senior management team continues and the latest reports claim that Domenico Teti is the latest name under consideration for the role of sporting director in San Siro. 

Teti the latest name on Milan’s list of potential sporting directors

Milan have recently appointed a new head coach in Ruben Amorim, but remain without a sporting director, technical director or CEO following the dismissals of Igli Tare, Geoffrey Moncada and Giorgio Furlani at the end of the 2025-26 season. 

Several names have been linked with a move to take over the sporting sector of Milan: First it was Ralf Rangnick, who has since made it clear that he will be continuing in his role as head coach of the Austria national team. Then came Markus Krösche, for whom the Rossoneri are still negotiating despite an initial rejection from Eintracht Frankfurt. 

Now, according to reports from Gianluca Di Marzio, a new name has emerged on Milan’s list of potential new sporting directors. 

The Rossoneri are reportedly studying potential Italian candidates for the sporting director role and Teti, formerly of Wolves and Al-Shabab is an option. 

The 49-year-old has been out of work since leaving his position as director of football at Wolves back in November. His reign lasted just 141 days. 

Teti was previously the sporting director for Al-Shabab in the Saudi Pro League between 2023 and 2024 and has also previously held directorship roles with APOEL Nicosia, Novara, Sampdoria and FC Lugano.

Reports in Italy claim that Milan are not giving up in their pursuit of Eintracht Frankfurt director Markus Krösche, despite claims in Germany that the Bundesliga side are unwilling to let the executive leave so close to the start of the summer transfer window. 

Report: Milan still holding out hope for Krösche and Hardung 

Milan’s hunt for a new set of sporting and technical directors continues following the departures of Igli Tare, Geoffrey Moncada and Giorgio Furlani back in May. 

Over the last week, reports in Italy have indicated that Eintracht Frankfurt’s Krösche was at the top of the Rossoneri wishlist to take over as technical director or ‘head of football’, and that he would bring his Eintracht Frankfurt colleague Timmo Hardung with him if he were to make the switch to San Siro this summer. 

News outlets in Italy had even claimed that Krösche and Hardung had reached agreements to join the senior management structure in Milan.

However, reports in Germany have made it clear that Eintracht Frankfurt are unwilling to let go of their directors as it would have an obvious impact on the club’s plans for the 2026-27 season. 

Reports on Thursday criticised Milan for their ‘amateurish’ handling of negotiations with Krösche and Frankfurt and argued that Krösche had been left ‘annoyed’ by the reports that he had reached an agreement to join Milan when nothing had been arranged between the two clubs. 

• Read more: Who is Milan-linked Krösche and who are his best signings?

There are conflicting reports in Germany and Italy, as La Gazzetta dello Sport have reported on Friday that Milan are not giving up on their pursuit of Krösche and Hardung, despite the reports in Germany that the directors will not leave their current positions in Frankfurt. 

The Pink Paper claims that despite their initial rejection earlier this week, Milan continued to discuss a potential set of deals for Krösche and Hardung on Thursday. The Rossoneri are reportedly hoping that Frankfurt will ‘soften’ their current stance if the potential compensation fee is raised. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport confesses that the signs are still not particularly encouraging for Milan. 

Other names that have been linked with the technical director role include Devin Ozek and Simon Rolfes.

Meanwhile, reports from Gianluca Di Marzio claim that former Wolverhampton Wanderers and Al-Shabab director Domenico Teti is a potential option in the role of sporting director. 

Genoa have officially announced the return of Tommaso Baldanzi in a permanent deal from Roma following a successful loan spell under Daniele De Rossi in the second half of the 2025-26 season. 

The 23-year-old has returned to Genoa on another initial loan, although this time for the whole of the 2026-27 season, in a deal that also includes an obligation to buy. 

Reports earlier this week indicated that Genoa’s obligation to buy clause will be in the region of €9.5m. It is believed that Baldanzi will sign a contract until the end of the 2029/30 season once his obligation to buy clause has been triggered. 

This is the third time that De Rossi has signed Baldanzi: Initially bringing him to Roma from Empoli almost immediately after his appointment as Giallorossi head coach in 2024. De Rossi also brought Baldanzi to Genoa on loan in January and he is now back for a third stint for the 2026-27 season onwards. 

He will continue to wear the no.8 shirt for Genoa heading into the 2026-27 campaign. 

Baldanzi returns to Genoa on a permanent deal from Roma: Club statement 

“Genoa CFC announces the completed return of Tommaso Baldanzi from AS Roma,” read a statement. 

“The transfer will consist of a loan and an obligation to buy. The 2003-born midfielder, who arrived on loan with an option to buy from the Giallorossi during the January transfer window, proved to be an important figure in the team’s attacking play during the second half of the season, racking up eight appearances and two assists for the Rossoblu. 

“Tommaso will be a big player for the Grifone in the 2026-27 season.” 

Baldanzi himself added: “I’m thrilled to be able to continue this adventure in the Grifone shirt. I can’t wait to get back on the pitch in these colours. 

“I feel like I have a lot to give, and I know that I still have a lot to prove in front of the Rossoblu fans, who made me feel right at home from my first day here in Genoa.”

Hellas Verona have officially announced that Marco Baroni has returned as head coach as the club look to earn promotion back to Serie A at the first time of asking in 2026-27. 

Baroni is back at Verona for a third stint, having spent three years with the Gialloblu towards the end of his playing career, returning in the position of head coach for the 2023-24 season. 

The Tuscan-born tactician led Verona to a 13th-place finish in Serie A in 2023-24, the club’s highest finish across the last four seasons, before joining Lazio in 2024-25 and then Torino in 2025-26. 

He will be tasked with steering Verona back to Serie A at the first time of asking following the team’s 19th-place finish in the top flight last term. 

Verona have confirmed that Baroni has signed a two-year contract with an option for an additional 12 months, tying him to the club until the summer of 2028, potentially 2029. He will officially begin work in his new role on July 1. 

Baroni returns to Verona: Club statement

“Hellas Verona FC is pleased to announce the appointment of Marco Baroni as the new head coach of the first team, effective from July 1. Baroni has signed a contract with the club until June 30, 2028 with an option to extend for a further season until 2029,” read a statement on the Verona website.

“Born in Florence on September 11, 1963, Baroni returns to the Gialloblu dugout following his spell in charge during the 2023-24 season, which ended with the team securing Serie A survival with a 13th-place finish in the league table. Earlier in his career, he was also part of Verona’s coaching staff in the 2002-03 season, serving as an assistant coach under Alberto Malesani. 

“His connection with Hellas Verona began as a player: He wore the Gialloblu shirt from 1995 to 1998, making 93 appearances and scoring nine goals across Serie A, Serie B and the Coppa Italia. 

“During his managerial career, he has achieved two promotions to Serie A, leading Benevento to the top flight in 2016/17 and Lecce in 2021/22. He has also successfully secured Serie A survival with both Lecce and Hellas Verona.

“Hellas Verona FC warmly welcomes Coach Marco Baroni and all members of his staff back to the Club and wishes them every success in their work.”

Italy Marcello Lippi has shared an anecdote from Italy’s triumphant 2006 World Cup campaign, recalling an incident involving alleged spies that led to the CT instructing his players to pull their shorts down and expose their backsides: ‘I was convinced there were photographers hiding behind the bushes’. 

Lippi on Italy’s ‘spygate’ at 2006 World Cup: ‘Maybe I was wrong’

Lippi spoke in depth in an interview with La Repubblica and shared a few stories from his time in charge of the Italy national team, of course focusing on the journey to winning the 2006 World Cup. 

While training in Dortmund ahead of their semi-final against Germany 20 years ago, Lippi was so convinced that photographers were sneaking around the Italy training base in an attempt to gather information on the team’s tactics and personnel, that he ended up telling his players to pull down their shorts and show their backsides to these alleged ‘spies’. 

“I was so sure,” Lippi recalled. “After training one day, I told the boys to stand in front of a certain bush and pull their shorts down. I was convinced that there were photographers hiding behind them. 

“As no pictures of that moment came out, maybe I was wrong,” Lippi conceded. 

Italy would go on to beat Germany in their semi-final thanks to a dramatic quickfire double from Fabio Grosso and Alessandro Del Piero in the final two minutes of extra-time before going on to defeat France on penalties in the 2006 World Cup final. 

• Read more: Why Italy will not be participating at the 2026 World Cup

News outlets in Italy claim that Scotland International Che Adams is tempted by the idea of a return to the UK with Wolverhampton Wanderers, despite a reported offer from newly-promoted Venezia in Serie A. 

Venezia and Wolves interested in Torino’s Adams

According to reports from tuttomercatoweb, Adams is keen to return to the UK after spending the last two seasons in Serie A with Torino. 

The Italian outlet claims that Adams is of interest to at least two clubs, including 2025-26 Serie B champions Venezia and English side Wolves, who will be playing in the EFL Championship next season following their relegation from the Premier League. 

TMW claims that given Adams’s desire to return to the UK, Wolves could be an enticing option for him. Friday’s report claims that Venezia are ‘not willing to throw in the towel’ yet, though. 

Wolves have not yet put a formal offer on the table for Torino, but TMW claims that Venezia have had an initial proposal in the region of €4m-€5m turned away by Torino. 

The Scotland international, currently gearing up to take on Morocco at the 2026 World Cup, will be into the final year of his contract with Torino next season, having signed a three-year deal after leaving Southampton on a free in 2024.

Adams scored nine goals from 36 appearances during his first season in the Italian top flight and added a further six goals from 33 appearances in 2025-26.

Former Italy star Marco Materazzi taunts his former Inter teammate Zlatan Ibrahimovic: ‘With what he’s doing, he’s the biggest Inter fan in history.’

Safe to say it hasn’t been an easy summer for ex-Milan and Inter star Ibrahimovic, who is currently leading the Rossoneri’s rebuild as a senior advisor to Gerry Cardinale.

Materazzi jokes: Ibrahimovic is the biggest Inter fan

Milan sacked coach Massimiliano Allegri and directors Giorgio Furlani, Geoffrey Moncada and Igli Tare at the end of the 2025-26 campaign without having a clear plan B.

They did hire Ruben Amorim as their new coach on a three-year deal, but missed out first on Ralf Rangnick and then on Markus Kroche as Football Directors, meaning the Serie A giants are still without a leading figure deciding on the sporting project and new signings.

Questioned about his rivalry with Ibrahimovic during their playing career, ex-Inter defender Materazzi told Gazzetta: “For me, it was just an on-the-field matter. I don’t know about him. I can’t really say anything about him because, with what he’s doing, he’s the biggest Inter fan in history.”

The dispute between Ibra and Materazzi began in 2009, when the Swede pushed to join Barcelona and ultimately completed the move in a swap deal involving Samuel Eto’o.

“Eto’o knew he was strong; he had an incredible ego, but he put himself at the team’s disposal with humility,” Materazzi said.

“Even if, in footballing terms, he’s not the most humble I’ve ever met, he always gave his all for the team.

“He didn’t care whether Milito, Materazzi or Zanetti would score. What mattered was to lift the trophies. For this reason, I’ll forever be grateful to Ibrahimovic, as he left Barcelona and let us get Eto’o.”

Italy are at a crossroads and need to rebuild again after missing out on the World Cup for the third consecutive time. In this new episode of the Football Italia Summer Show, Lorenzo Bettoni and Richard Hall discuss who should remain in the Azzurri squad and who should be cut.

New day and new episode of the Football Italia Summer Show on YouTube.

Keep or drop? Assessing the future of the Italy national team

In our very first episode alongside TNT Sports commentator Adam Summerton earlier this week, we discussed Roberto Mancini’s potential return as the Azzurri national team coach.

Today, we examine the options for the incoming Nazionale boss.

Starting from Gennaro Gattuso’s Italy squad for the World Cup play-off in March, Richard Hall and Lorenzo Bettoni named the Italy players who should be given a second chance and those who should not be part of the new project.

Check out our YouTube page for all the episodes of the Football Italia Summer Show and our daily transfer updates.

If you haven’t done it yet, subscribe to the channel and join the conversation with your questions and thoughts!

Italy’s rebuild: Who stays and who goes?

Watch the full episode below

Sassuolo and Lega Serie A reacted to Ismael Koné’s horrific injury with the Canada national team, wishing him a speedy recovery: ‘We will get through this difficult time together,’ his club said.

Sassuolo midfielder Koné suffered a broken leg during Canada’s 6-0 win over Qatar in their second 2026 World Cup group stage game on Thursday.

Koné immediately underwent surgery in Vancouver, where he was visited by his teammate Moïse Bombito.

Koné scored six goals in 36 matches with Sassuolo during the 2025-26 season. He played a significant role for the Neroverdi in his first year in Serie A, and the Italian club sent him a message on social media following his injury.

“Get well soon, Isma,” Sassuolo wrote on X.

“We are close to you, and together we will get through this difficult time.”

Get well soon, Isma!

Ti siamo vicini e insieme supereremo questo momento difficile #ForzaSasol pic.twitter.com/KdTjlx5YNF

— U.S. Sassuolo (@SassuoloUS) June 19, 2026

Lega Serie A joined Sassuolo in wishing Koné a speedy recovery with a message posted on Facebook: “We’re gonna wait to see you again like this! Get well soon.”

The Serie A message came with a picture of Koné celebrating one of Canada’s goals against Qatar before his injury in the second half.

Koné’s recovery time remains unclear, but he’ll obviously miss several months of action with his club.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti confirms he’ll ‘make some changes’ for the second World Cup group stage game against Haiti: ‘We have to find a solution.’

Brazil face Haiti in their second group stage game at the 2026 World Cup on Saturday, June 20 at 2:30 CET Friday, June 19 at 6:30 pm local time.

Ancelotti’s side had a disappointing start to the tournament, grabbing a 1-1 draw against Morocco, which dominated proceedings for much of the match.

Brazil vs. Haiti – Ancelotti confirms line-up changes

“The team can and must do more,” Ancelotti admitted at a pre-match press conference via Corriere dello Sport.

“We’ll make some changes, maybe bring in a fresher player. We need to improve our balance and the quality of our play. Make fewer steps wrong. We have the quality to do it, to play a fun game.

“I have no problem communicating initial training. Football has no secrets, but I prefer to tell the players first,” Ancelotti added.

“Against Morocco, the match didn’t go well and makes me a bit critical of the team. We have to find a solution. We have been working over the past few days to try to resolve the situation, and I believe we will succeed because I continue to trust that the team will be competitive in this World Cup.”

According to Gazzetta, Ancelotti will make three changes to the Brazil XI, but Endrick is expected to remain on the bench.

Douglas Santos is expected to replace Alex Sandro as left-back, Fabinho should replace Casemiro in central midfield, while Luiz Henrique will replace Paquetà, Gazzetta claims.

“We have to do many things well: defend with a low block, attack, exploit individual quality, be aggressive forward, lower the block, defend in our own area,” Ancelotti continued.

“Haiti is a very balanced team, with above all physical quality, well organised and with a rather clear system.

“They play good football given their characteristics. We must respect everyone because this is a World Cup and everyone is very motivated.”

Probable Brazil XI vs. Haiti (4-2-4): Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Douglas Santos; Fabinho, Bruno Guimarães; Raphinha, Vinícius, Matheus Cunha, Luiz Henrique.

Italy have failed to qualify for the World Cup, but many Serie A stars will feature in this summer’s tournament, and some of them will be looking for redemption after a disappointing season at a club level.

The World Cup can feel like jackpots slots sometimes: one lucky bounce, one perfect strike, and everything changes in an instant on football’s biggest stage.

Serie A stars looking for redemption at 2026 World Cup

Players who have failed to impress during the season might end up playing a vital role for their countries, scoring crucial goals or making crucial saves that football fans will remember for years.

Sixty-six Serie A players will feature at the 2026 World Cup, and Genoa centre-back Leo Ostigard recently became the first player from Italy’s top flight to score in the tournament.

Ostigard had a positive season with Genoa as the Rossoblu secured survival under the guidance of Azzurri legend Daniele De Rossi, but some of his Serie A colleagues are looking for a fresh start in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Among them is Napoli striker Romelu Lukaku, who has only played 64 minutes for Napoli in 2026-27.

The Belgium international suffered a severe injury during the pre-season and then had a fallout with the club in March, when he refused to return from Belgium, where he remained during the international break to train individually.

Napoli first fined him, but then approved him to continue preparations after the World Cup break.

Lukaku played a key role in Belgium’s 1-1 draw against Egypt in their 2026 World Cup opener earlier this week, contributing to Egypt’s own goal just 30 minutes after being subbed on.

“Even if it went down as an own goal, Romelu’s presence was vital. We know how dangerous he can be for our opponent’s defence,” said his teammate Kevin De Bruyne.

“If we look at the other matches at this World Cup, though, nothing can be taken for granted, and no game is easy.”

Rudi Garcia, a former Napoli coach, added: “Lukaku could even have ended up with a brace with that header, but I am delighted for him, and the whole squad feels the same way. Lukaku is hugely important to us.”

Other Serie A stars looking for redemption at the World Cup include Milan wingers Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic.

The latter hasn’t yet scored a goal at a club level in 2026, while Leao already confirmed that he feels his time at the club is over and that he’ll be looking for a new challenge at the end of the World Cup.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Liverpool refuse to lower their €30m asking price for Curtis Jones, but Inter are still confident of reaching an agreement with the Reds as the Englishman wants to move to San Siro.

Inter continue to push to sign Liverpool midfielder Jones and are confident of reaching an agreement with the Reds in the coming days.

Latest Inter transfer updates: Jones and Solet

Gazzetta reports that Inter sent an opening €20m offer for the 25-year-old earlier this week, but Liverpool continue to ask for €30m and a sell-on clause.

The Nerazzurri are reportedly working to finalise a deal in the coming days as they hope Jones can start the pre-season under Cristian Chivu in less than a month.

Jones’ contract expires in a year, boosting Inter’s confidence that Liverpool will ultimately lower their asking price.

Gazzetta claims that Jones wants to move to Inter this summer.

The pink paper adds that the Nerazzurri have continued talks with Udinese over Oumar Solet and aim to bring the 26-year-old to San Siro in time for the start of the pre-season.

Inter have practically completed their first summer signing as they are finalising negotiations with Atalanta for Marco Palestra in a deal exceeding €50m.

Ismael Koné underwent surgery after suffering a broken leg in Canada’s 6-0 World Cup win over Qatar last night and was immediately visited at the hospital by his compatriot Moïse Bombito.

Canada’s first-ever World Cup win, inspired by Jonathan David’s hat-trick last night, was marred by a horrific injury suffered by Sassuolo midfielder Koné.

Canada reactions as Koné suffers horrific injury

The 24-year-old was stretchered off following a reckless challenge from Assim Madibo, who was immediately confronted by some of Koné’s teammates and then received a straight red card after a VAR check.

“You could hear the bone snap,” said Canada coach Jesse Marsch via The Athletic.

“Your heart goes out to him. Everybody’s shaken for him.”

Ten minutes after Koné’s injury, Nathan Saliba scored a free-kick goal for Canada and celebrated by holding up Koné’s No.8 shirt.

“Koné means everything to this team,” said Juventus and Canada striker David.

“If you ask the same question to any guy on this team, they will tell you the same. He is someone that we love a lot.”

Koné immediately underwent surgery at a Vancouver Hospital and was visited by his teammate Bombito, who then shared a picture on Instagram.

Il Corriere dello Sport reports that Nico Paz’s decision to remain at Como in 2026-27 has upset Real Madrid, which still want the Argentine to return to the Bernabeu unless the Serie A club pay €60m.

Il Corriere dello Sport reports that Real Madrid are unhappy with Nico Paz’s decision to remain at Como in 2026-27.

Nico Paz’s transfer decision upsets Real Madrid

AS.com in Spain reported earlier this week that Paz had opted to stay at the Stadio Sinigaglia for one more year, given that Real Madrid are bringing in several experienced players, including Bernardo Silva, which will raise the competition for a starting spot in attack next season.

Italian sources such as Sky Sport Italia and Fabrizio Romano had been more cautious, saying that Como were confident of retaining Paz, but adding that the Serie A side and Real Madrid were in talks to determine the best transfer formula.

Technically, Nico Paz is a Como player, having completed a permanent transfer from Real Madrid two years ago.

Real Madrid, however, have an option to bring him back until 2027.

If they sign him this summer, they’ll need to pay €10m, while the fee for the next campaign is €11m.

Corriere dello Sport adds that Como will be entitled to a 50% sell-on clause if Paz remains with the club beyond the summer.

The Italian newspaper claims that Real Madrid still want to bring the Argentine back to the club this summer by activating their clause and have warned Como that the only way to retain him permanently is by paying €60m.

Juventus striker Jonathan David has made history for Canada, becoming the country’s first player to score a hat-trick at a World Cup, but Sassuolo midfielder Ismael Koné suffered a serious injury in a 6-0 win over Qatar.

Canada secured a comfortable 6-0 win over Qatar in their second group stage game at the 2026 World Cup last night.

Juventus striker David makes Canada history at World Cup

Juventus striker David took centre stage by scoring a hat-trick, becoming the first-ever Canadian player to score three goals in a World Cup match.

There was, however, also bad news for one of the World Cup’s host countries as Sassuolo midfielder Koné suffered a broken leg eight minutes into the second half with Canada leading 3-0.

Assim Madibo’s reckless challenge led to Koné’s injury. The player from Qatar initially received a yellow card, but this was quickly upgraded to a red card after a VAR review.

 “Ismael is such a great kid – he’s so imperfect, but that’s part of why you love him,” said Canada coach Jesse Marsch via The Sun.

“Because he can do great things that nobody else can do, then the next moment he loses concentration. He embodies us as a team, it’s a huge loss for us. He’ll be fine; we’ll get him good doctors and get him back, but that kid is a big part of our future and everything we do.”

Both Koné and David have just terminated their first season in Serie A.

David scored eight goals in 46 appearances across all competitions with Juventus, while Koné netted six times in 36 matches with Sassuolo.

David is now the World Cup’s top-goal scorer, but according to recent reports in Italy, Juventus are open to offers for the Canada international this summer.

According to Gazzetta, however, David wants to remain at Juventus and fight for a starting spot in 2026-27.

Catch our latest Transfer Show on YouTube, where we break down the latest updates on David and the newest transfer news from Serie A.

You can watch the full episode below.

Igor Protti’s family has announced the death of the former Italian striker at the age of 58 and, in accordance with his wishes, shared his final message: ‘This wonderful journey, like every match, has reached the final whistle.’

Former Italian striker Protti died last night, aged 58.

Ex-Italian striker Protti dies at 58

His family confirmed the news in a statement published on his official Instagram page: “With immense sorrow, the family announces that Igor passed away during the night,” the statement reads.

In accordance with Protti’s wishes, the family also published a farewell message from the ex-striker: “This wonderful journey, like every match, has reached the final whistle. It is difficult to find words that can explain it, the only thing I can do is thank my great and wonderful family, whom I have loved dearly.

“I also want to thank all the people who cared for me and stood by my side, and all the supporters of the teams I played for, for the affection and love they always showed me, which I wholeheartedly returned. Hoping this is a see you again rather than a farewell.”

Protti revealed in July 2025 that he had been diagnosed with cancer, which, by September, had spread to his vertebrae. At the end of last month, he walked his daughter down the aisle on her wedding day.

A former striker for Livorno, Messina, Bari, Napoli and Lazio, among others, Protti was, along with Dario Hubner, the only player to become the Capocannoniere in each of the top-three Italian leagues: Serie A, Serie B and Serie C.

To date, he’s also the only player to finish as the Serie A leading scorer while playing for a team that was relegated in the same season (Bari).

During his playing career, Protti scored 48 goals in 144 Serie A matches.

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La Gazzetta dello Sport

Big coup: here’s Palestra

Meeting with Atalanta: agreement close for a 50m deal. Chivu signs until 2028

Carletto changes everything: Brazil with four strikers

Ancelotti with a super attack for a push against Haiti

Messi beats Ronaldo, duel (almost) over

Corriere dello Sport

Ancelotti changes, Montella risks

Watch Out for Paz

In Madrid, the Argentine feels blocked by Bellingham and Bernardo Silva

Real Madrid and Nico at odds: ‘Bring us €60 million.’

The talent has asked to play the Champions League with Como. Florentino picks the hard line: he doesn’t want to renew the loan. Cesc stunned. Premier League looming.

Inter, now there’s Jones. Chivu until 2028

Ausilio calls Liverpool: breakthrough for the full-back, 50m to La Dea

Kolo, Juve prepare the offer

New contacts with the entourage. Vicario advances in goal

Milan, now Leao is a burden

The Portuguese is disappointing at the World Cup too: Cardinale worried

Tuttosport

Lucumì, Juventus push

The Colombian centre-back is convincing in terms of leadership and versatility: contacts with the Rossoblu have resumed. Working on the 28m clause, the good relationship can ease the deal. Kolo Muani: Carnevali in talks with PSG. Attacking midfield: idea Zaniolo as an alternative to Brahim Diaz. Milan in the race too.

Toro and Abate: project Cacciamani

Montella risks flopping, asks for Yildiz’s help

Ancelotti remakes Brazil, but there’s the Neymar affair

Malagò is eligible, green light to Mancini

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Thursday’s reports claim that Juventus have reopened talks with PSG striker Randal Kolo Muani as the club seek a replacement for Dusan Vlahovic, who will become a free agent at the beginning of July. 

Report: Carnevali wants Kolo Muani back at Juventus

Vlahovic’s contract with Juventus expires on June 30 and as things stand, the Serbian will not be signing a renewal and is expected to walk away on a free transfer without a sudden, last-minute u-turn. 

This leaves Juventus with just Jonathan David, Lois Openda and Arkadiusz Milik among their striking options, who, between them, scored just seven Serie A goals in 2025-26 (David with six, Openda with one). 

Newly-appointed CEO Giovanni Carnevali is actively on the hunt for solutions in attack, and according to Thursday’s reports from Gianluca Di Marzio, he has recently reopened talks over a potential return for Kolo Muani. 

Kolo Muani impressed while on loan with the Bianconeri in the second half of the 2024-25 campaign, averaging a goal every other game with eight from his first 16 appearances in the Italian top flight. 

Thursday’s reports claim that Carnevali wants to get to the bottom of exactly how much it will cost to bring Kolo Muani back to Turin between the transfer fee, wages and agents’ fees.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic faced backlash from large sections of Milan supporters for taking on a TV punditry role in the United States for the 2026 World Cup at a time when the Rossoneri are desperately lacking in leadership, and now the Rossoneri advisor is facing criticism for the quality of his analysis work: ‘Less Zlatan, less Lalas’. 

Ibrahimovic criticised for poor punditry work while Milan remain leaderless

Ibrahimovic is currently serving as a senior advisor to RedBird, the investment management firm that owns Milan. The former Juventus, Inter and Milan striker is not employed by the Rossoneri directly, but there has often been confusion as to the extent of his powers in Rossoneri circles. 

Eyebrows were raised when it was announced that Ibrahimovic would be joining the Fox Sports punditry team for the duration of the 2026 World Cup, especially given that Milan were without a head coach for several weeks – Ruben Amorim only appointed on Tuesday – while the Rossoneri remain without a sporting director, technical director or CEO less than a fortnight before the summer transfer window formally opens. 

Not only did Ibrahimovic face backlash for his decision to take on the Fox Sports gig at such an unstable time in San Siro, but he is now facing criticism for the quality of his punditry work as well. 

The Athletic have published an article lambasting the ‘awkward’ on-screen dynamic between Ibrahimovic and former USMNT defender Alexi Lalas, claiming that Fox’s flagship football – or ‘soccer’ – show would be ‘better’ with “less Zlatan, less Lalas.” 

The Athletic criticised Ibrahimovic for his lack of knowledge, claiming that the Swede had ‘never heard’ of Canada’s American head coach Jesse Marsch while analysing a Canada match in front of a US-audience.

Ibrahimovic was also criticised for leaning too much into over-confidence ‘shtick’, especially compared to the considerably more palatable Thierry Henry. 

The Athletic’s advice is for Fox to utilise Zlatan’s insight into goalscoring and on-pitch intelligence, and for there to be much less coverage given to Lalas as a whole.

Fabio Capello is celebrating his 80th birthday on Thursday and has named the best players he has worked with in his career to date, the best ‘pupil’ that he has taught and has looked back on his most memorable highlights from a career that spanned over 50 years. 

Capello’s 80th birthday interview: ‘Herrera lightyears ahead, Cassano made me too angry’

As a player, Capello was a four-time Scudetto winner and lifted trophies with Roma, Juventus and Milan, before embarking on a managerial career that would take him back to Milan, Roma, Juve but also to Real Madrid, and the England and Russia national teams. 

Capello won nine trophies while in charge of Milan, including the 1993-94 Champions League, two league titles with Real Madrid, two trophies with Roma and two league titles with Juventus that were later revoked. 

Speaking in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Capello says that there are three main coaches that have given him the most inspiration. 

“I tried to take something from all of their methods. I copied a lot from (Helenio) Herrera, a great motivator, lightyears ahead of the rest. I won my first trophy with him, the Coppa Italia in 1969, beating Cagliari with Riva, the greatest striker around by some distance. 

“(Nils) Liedholm, on the other hand, made you believe that you wanted to do something, even if it was actually just him who wanted you to do it. 

“(Nereo) Rocco understood football brilliantly. He was very direct, no beating around the bush.” 

And what are Capello’s favourite memories from his playing career?

“The early days,” he replied. “The first trophies: The first Coppa Italia, the first Scudetto with Juve, putting the star on the shirt with Rivera’s Milan, the strongest team I played in. 

“As a coach, the best feeling of all was the 1994 Champions League which we won against all odds, so that was even more beautiful.” 

Capello says that De Rossi was his best ‘student’, i.e. players that he has coached that have gone on to have their own coaching career. 

“If I have to name one, I would say De Rossi. I gave him his debut at Roma, I invested a lot in him, so out of affection, I would say Daniele.” 

And who is the best player that Capello has had the honour of coaching?

“Ronaldo, o Fenomeno. He was an absolute champion. It’s a shame he didn’t want to make any more sacrifices. And in Madrid, they forced me to sell him. 

“Another out-of-this-world talent was Cassano, but he made me too angry: A talent that was lost.” 

Inter have officially announced that head coach Cristian Chivu has put pen to paper on a new contract extension, which will tie the Romanian to the club until the summer of 2028. 

Chivu’s contract extension comes as a reward after a remarkable first season in charge, guiding the Nerazzurri to a Serie A and Coppa Italia double in what was the 45-year-old’s first full season as a head coach. 

Chivu spent the final seven years of his playing career in San Siro and held coaching roles with Inter’s U14s, U17s, U18s and the Primavera side before taking charge of Parma in the second half of the 2024-25 campaign. 

Chivu was then brought back to Inter following the departure of Simone Inzaghi at the end of the 2024-25 season and ended up guiding the Nerazzurri to both the Coppa Italia trophy and the Scudetto in 2025-26. 

Chivu’s previous contract had been due to expire next year, in the summer of 2027.

What Inter said about Chivu’s contract extension

“FC Internazionale Milano is delighted to confirm the contract extension of head coach Cristian Chivu. Thanks to the contract renewal, Coach Chivu will stay in charge of the Nerazzurri until 2028,” read a statement on the club website.

“Cristian Chivu’s story is truly unique: it’s a story defined by passion and sacrifice, it’s a tale of memorable and defining moments. It’s a story entrenched in Nerazzurri colours, with the Club there at every stage of the coach’s life, as was the case when Chivu was appointed Inter head coach on 9 June 2025.

“Since then, Cristian has been on the touchlines for Inter for 58 matches in an intense and demanding season that proved unforgettable as the months went by. The coach won a historic double featuring Inter’s 21st Scudetto, the Club’s tenth Coppa Italia. These were victories from a special team built under the Romanian coach, who was also recognised as Serie A Coach of the Season for 2025/26.

“Pride, loyalty, and passion for Inter: these were Chivu’s words to introduce himself to the Nerazzurri family at the start of his third stint with Inter. Words that served as a mantra, guiding his daily work with the squad and building the foundations for a triumphant season. 

“They are also values he recognised in his players, the core of a special team that went on to achieve remarkable success. Chivu has always allowed his team to be recognised for their merits, stepping back to let them have their moments to shine, even in the most celebratory moments. 

“These include the Coppa Italia ceremony in Rome, when he left the stage to the players, and at San Siro during the Serie A trophy celebration, when his players had to encourage him to lift the trophy with captain Lautaro Martinez. Perhaps the most special recognition of all: a group that truly views Chivu as their leader and guide.

“He’s a coach who can read every moment, a master who has passed on the values of Inter passion, a tradition long carried forward by a group that has consistently raised the profile of the Nerazzurri colours over the years. 

“This has been a key part of Inter’s journey, a factor that has given the players self-belief and allowed them to pick themselves back up after they were knocked down, a driving force ready to propel the team towards new challenges and new goals: from the Champions League to the league title, via the Coppa Italia and the Italian Super Cup.

“This season has also seen the Romanian coach set several records: Chivu won the Scudetto as a coach after winning three league titles as a player, a feat achieved only by Armando Castellazzi in 1937/38, after winning in midfield for Inter’s 1929/30 Scudetto, while the legendary Virgilio Fossati had won as player-manager of the first championship in Nerazzurri history. 

“That’s not all, Chivu is also the fifth Inter coach in history to win Serie A in his first season, after Árpad Weisz (1929/30), Alfredo Foni (1952/53), Giovanni Invernizzi (1970/71), and Jose Mourinho (2008/09). Chivu’s records extent to more than this as he is the second coach to win Serie A with both the first team and the Primavera side, having previously won with Inter’s youth squad in 2022. 

“Alongside him, only Invernizzi had accomplished this, who, as well as the 1971 title, also won three Primavera tournaments in 1964, 1966, and 1969. Chivu is therefore the first to win the Scudetto across all three of his Nerazzurri ‘lives’. With the addition of the Coppa Italia, he has once again rewritten the record books, becoming the only figure in Inter history to win both competitions in the same season as both player and coach.

“Triumphs and spectacular achievements, possible only for those who truly know what it means to have passion for Inter, a value that has defined the entire season and will once again guide Cristian Chivu until 2028.”

The latest Football Italia Transfer Show is out on YouTube. Check out today’s most relevant updates from Italy.

Italy international Marco Palestra is expected to join Inter by next week, as the newly crowned Serie A champions had a positive meeting with Atalanta on Thursday and are close to reaching an agreement over the full-back’s transfer fee.

Inter have moved quickly to replace Denzel Dumfries, who will move to Real Madrid for €20m.

Serie A transfer round-up June 18

Inter’s city rivals Milan are still looking for a director of football and a sporting director, and the uncertainty regarding the club’s management has unsettled some key members of the team, such as Mike Maignan and Adrien Rabiot, according to Gazzetta and Corriere dello Sport.

Both Frenchmen are reportedly considering leaving Milan this summer, even though they have not yet made any public statement about their intentions, unlike their teammate Rafael Leao.

Jonathan David, on the other hand, wants to stay at Juventus to prove his worth in 2026-27, and according to Gazzetta, the Canadian’s stance complicates the Bianconeri’s search for a new centre-forward.

Roma remain keen on Mason Greenwood, and it is cheaper for the Giallorossi to sign the Englishman by the end of the month than from July 1.

As reported by Gazzetta, Marseille might be forced by financial difficulties to accept a €50m fee, including add-ons, to sell Greenwood before June 30, while, from July 1, a €60m clause will activate for the ex-Manchester United winger.

Find out today’s transfer updates in the Football Italia Transfer Show

Five Serie A stars are involved in the starting line-ups as Switzerland and Bosnia meet in the second round of group stage fixtures at the 2026 World Cup on Thursday evening. 

Group B at the 2026 World Cup is at a complete deadlock after the first round of group stage fixtures as the opening matches between Switzerland and Qatar ended level at 1-1, as did the match between Bosnia and co-hosts Canada.

Switzerland have made two changes for Thursday’s match, dropping Denis Zakaria and Ruben Vargas in favour of Silvan Widmer and Fabian Rieder. 

The Swiss side will feature three Italian representatives in the form of Inter center-back Manuel Akanji, Bologna midfielder Remo Freuler and Pisa’s Michel Aebischer. Milan’s Ardon Jashari is named among the substitutes. 

Bosnia, who defeated Italy in the World Cup play-off final in order to qualify, will have two Serie A representatives in Sassuolo’s Tarik Muharemovic and Atalanta’s Sead Kolasinac. 

Kick-off is due at 20.00 BST.

Switzerland vs. Bosnia: Confirmed line-ups

Switzerland (4-3-3): Kobel; Widmer, Akanji, Elvedi, Rodriguez; Freuler, Xhaka, Aebischer; Rieder, Embolo, Ndoye. 

Subs: Mvogo, Keller, Coemert, Amenda, Jaquez, Zakaria, Manzambi, Jashari, Sow, Fassnacht, Vargas, Okafor, Amdouni, Itten.

Bosnia (4-4-2): Vasilj; Dedic, Katic, Muharemovic, Kolasinac; Alajbegovic, Tahirovic, Sunjic, Memic; Dzeko, Demirovic. 

Subs: Jurkas, Zlomislic, Mujakic, Hadzikadunic, Radeljic, Malic, Gigovic, Basic, Hadziahmetovic, Burnic, Mahmic, Bazdar, Bajraktaervic, Tabakovic, Lukic.

Declan Rice took a moment to speak about his friendship with Italy international Riccardo Calafiori after England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia at the 2026 World Cup and says that Italy is ‘an amazing country, I respect everyone there’. 

Declan Rice on love for Calafiori and Italy

The Arsenal midfielder started alongside Elliot Anderson and Jude Bellingham in the England midfield as Thomas Tuchel led the Three Lions to an encouraging 4-2 victory over a Croatia side featuring the likes of Luka Modric, Petar Sucic, Martin Baturina and Mario Pasalic.

During the post-match interviews, Rice took a moment to speak to the Italian media and discussed his friendship with Italy international Calafiori, who is not at the World Cup and is instead preparing to defend Arsenal’s Premier League title in 2026-27.  

“One of my best friends at Arsenal, Calafiori, he’s obviously Italian. I love that guy, one of my best friends in football,” the England midfielder said in a post-match interview with DAZN.

“It’s an amazing country, I’ve been there a few times myself so I respect everyone there.” 

The DAZN reporter asked Rice how he is coping with the sun in the United States, joking with the sunburned Englishman that he’s picked up a nice bit of colour. 

“I’ve got a nice colour now,” Rice insisted. “I’m not sunburned anymore. I was very burnt the first few days but now I’m good. I’m happy now”

Declan Rice ama l’Italia e Calafiori #FIFAWorldCup #DAZN pic.twitter.com/0nqVUNnrcz

— DAZN Italia (@DAZN_IT) June 18, 2026

Brazil are preparing to take on Haiti in their second group stage match of the 2026 World Cup, but Carlo Ancelotti will once again have to go without star attacker Neymar, who will not be available despite his recent return to training. 

Still no Neymar for Brazil and Ancelotti

Neymar did not feature for Brazil in their 1-1 draw against Morocco in their opening match at the 2026 World Cup after picking up a new injury almost immediately after reporting for national team duty. 

The former Barcelona and PSG star has recently returned to training with the rest of his teammates, but this was not enough for him to be considered for selection for Brazil’s upcoming match against Haiti, which will kick-off at 1.30 BST in the early hours of Saturday morning. 

According to the latest updates from Sky Sport Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio, Neymar has remained at Brazil’s base camp in New Jersey to continue his recovery work while the rest of the squad have set off for their match against Haiti, which will be played in Philadelphia. 

There is still some optimism that Neymar may be fit enough to feature against Scott McTominay’s Scotland on Wednesday, June 24.

Francesco Camarda is now officially a Milan player again as the Rossoneri have exercised their buy-back option to bring the teenager home from Lecce just two days after his loan deal was made permanent. 

Official: Lecce confirm Milan have activated Camarda buy-back clause

Camarda spent the 2025-26 season on loan with Lecce in order to experience a full season playing regularly in the Italian top flight. Curiously, that loan deal included a low-cost option to buy for Lecce and another low-cost buy-back option in favour of the Rossoneri. 

Lecce confirmed on Tuesday that they had activated their option to buy to sign Camarda on a permanent basis. 

However, Lecce have since confirmed on Thursday that Milan have exercised their buy-back option, which means that the 18-year-old spent less than two days as a full-time Lecce player. 

Milan have since confirmed the deal in a statement of their own, which reads: “Milan announces that it has exercised the buy-back option relating to the ownership of Francesco Camarda. The striker will return to the Rossoneri starting from July 1, 2026.”

Reports on Wednesday indicated that Milan’s buy-back option was set at just above €500,000 and that they only had a brief period between June 18 and June 20 to activate the clause.

Reports in Germany claim that Milan offered Eintracht Frankfurt director Markus Krösche a staggering salary of €10m per season for four years and a transfer budget of €700m in order to transform the Rossoneri, but this was still not enough to convince the German to move to San Siro. 

BILD: Milan’s handling of Krösche negotiations were ‘amateurish’

Milan have recently learned that Krösche will not be joining the club in the role of ‘head of football’. The Eintracht Frankfurt director had been linked with a move to take over the sporting sector of the club but seems set to stay on in his current role with the Bundesliga outfit. 

• Read more: Who is Milan-linked Krösche and who are his best signings?

That is despite the fact that Milan were willing to offer Krösche €40m in salary over a four-year period, equating to €10m net per season according to reports from German outlet BILD. 

A €10m-per-season salary would have been significantly higher than any of the current players in the Rossoneri squad: The likes of Rafael Leao and Mike Maignan believed to be earning somewhere in the region of €7m net per season. 

BILD also claims that Milan were willing to give Krösche a budget of €700m over a four-year period to completely transform the playing staff, coaching staff and the general sporting side of the club.  

Thursday’s report points out that there was a release clause in Krösche’s contract with Eintracht Frankfurt, believed to be worth €7m, but this would have only been valid during the winter, not the summer. 

That means that Milan would have had to negotiate with Frankfurt, who reportedly set their price at €10m to free Krösche from his current contract. 

In the end, the German executive decided to stay where he is, and BILD claims that part of his decision was due to the fact that he did not want to ‘let down’ a club that has treated him so well so close to the beginning of the transfer window, nor did he want to disappoint the 600 staff that work under him at the Deutsche Bank Park. 

BILD also claims that Krösche was ‘annoyed’ at the reports that came out in the Italian press regarding his talks with Milan when an agreement had not been reached. The German outlet claims that the handling of the situation was ‘amateurish’ from such a respected and world-renowned club.

Czechia and South Africa are hoping to get off the mark at the 2026 World Cup when they face each other in Atlanta as the second round of group stage fixtures gets underway on Thursday evening. 

Both nations fell to defeats in their first matches in Group A: South Africa fell to a 3-1 defeat against co-hosts Mexico in the opening game of the 2026 World Cup while Czechia were defeated 2-1 by South Korea shortly afterwards. 

South Africa’s defeat was particularly costly as they had two players sent off in the process and will therefore be without Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane against Czechia on Thursday. 

The Czech outfit has made a handful of changes, most notably leaving West Ham United midfielder Tomas Soucek among the substitutes. 

There are no Serie A representatives involved in today’s game

Kick-off is due at 17.00 BST.

Czechia vs. South Africa: Confirmed line-ups 

Czechia (5-3-2): Kovar; Coufal, Holes, Hranac, Krejci, Sojka; Sadilek, Darida, Cerv; Hlozek, Schick.

Subs: Stanek, Hornicek, Zima, Chaloupek, Zeleny, Doudera, Provod, Soucek, Sochurek, Kuchta, Chytil, Sulc, Chory, Visinsky.

South Africa (4-3-3): Williams; Mudau, Okon, Mbokazi, Modiba; Mokoena, Mbatha, Adams; Maseko, Rayners, Appollis.

Subs: Chaine, Goss, Matuludi, Ndamane, Kabini, Sibisi, Makhanya, Cross, Moremi, Foster, Mofokeng, Makgopa, Sebelebele.

Suspended: Sithole, Zwane

Ruben Amorim has a rebuild job on his hands as the recently-appointed head coach of Milan, as the Rossoneri have a list of nine players whose futures remain unsettled including the likes of Rafael Leao, Luka Modric and Adrien Rabiot. 

Amorim has nine potential transfer headaches at Milan

It was a bitterly disappointing end to the 2025-26 season for Milan, who missed out on qualification to the Champions League despite having spent much of the campaign in second place. 

The collapse in form in the final in the final weeks of the season led to the departures of head coach Massimiliano Allegri, sporting director Igli Tare, technical director Geoffrey Moncada and CEO Giorgio Furlani, who were all dismissed in one brutal statement the day after the Serie A campaign came to an end. 

It took several weeks for Milan to make any new appointments, but have since landed on former Manchester United and Sporting CP tactician Amorim to take over from Allegri. A new set of directors are still yet to be appointed. 

Before the new coach starts thinking about potential signings, he already has a list of nine players whose futures need to be sorted as a matter of priority. 

Perhaps the biggest issue for Milan is the future of Leao, who has made it clear in a series of interviews during the off-season that he feels ready to take on a new challenge elsewhere. 

The issue is finding a willing buyer, as La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Milan are still hoping to bring in a fee of €50m if they are to sell the Portugal international this summer. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that Amorim may not be the best fit for Leao as a head coach, especially if he intends to deploy his usual 3-4-2-1 formation, which would not get the best out of Leao’s characteristics. 

Additionally, it remains to be seen what Luka Modric will decide to do after the 2026 World Cup comes to an end. He joined Milan on a free transfer last summer, signing a one-year contract with an option to extend, but many signs point towards him potentially calling it a day on his playing career at the age of 40 this summer.

Then there is Rabiot, who was brought to the club by his former Juventus coach Allegri last summer. Allegri has since taken over from Antonio Conte as head coach of Napoli, and Rabiot continues to be linked with a potential move to join his trusted leader at the Stadio Maradona. 

As per La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan  have no intention of letting Christian Pulisic go this summer, but the fact that he has not yet put pen to paper on a new contract is not a particularly encouraging sign. 

The USMNT star is under contract until 2027 with a club option to extend for a further 12 months, so there is still time to negotiate a renewal, and US-based owner Gerry Cardinale is said to be particularly keen on keeping ‘Captain America’ on board. 

There are also doubts surrounding goalkeeper Mike Maignan, who has often been linked with big-money moves to some of Europe’s biggest clubs. La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that a season without Champions League football and an unclear direction at boardroom level is not particularly appealing to the Frenchman. 

Then, there are a set of returning loanees who appear unlikely to reclaim their places in the Rossoneri first team. They include Samuel Chukwueze, who could still potentially join Fulham on a permanent basis, Ismael Bennacer, set to return from Dinamo Zagreb, Yunus Musah, set to return from Atalanta, Warren Bondo, set to return from Cremonese. 

Reports in Italy claim that Jonathan David does not want to give up on his Juventus career after one disappointing season in Serie A, but the Canada international’s stance could complicate the club’s chances of bringing in a new centre-forward during the summer transfer window. 

Juventus could struggle to sign a new striker if both David and Openda stay

David joined Juventus on a free transfer during the 2025 summer transfer window, signing on a five-year contract running until the summer of 2030. The 26-year-old earns a reported wage of €6m per season plus up to €2m in bonuses in Turin. 

Despite delivering a consistent return during his time in Ligue 1 with Lille, averaging above 17 league goals per season during his time in France, David struggled to hit the ground running in Serie A and for the first time in his professional career, ended a season without hitting double figures (six goals from 35 Serie A appearances, eight goals from 46 appearances across all competitions). 

With Juventus missing out on qualification to the Champions League and with Dusan Vlahovic’s contract expiring at the end of June, Juventus have been keen to bring in a new centre-forward to add to Luciano Spalletti’s ranks. 

Given that David arrived on a free transfer, any sale would be recorded as a capital gain for Juventus if they were to sell the Canadian this summer. 

However, according to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, David is unwilling to give up on his Bianconeri career after just one season and is determined to prove his worth at the Allianz Stadium. 

However, this could complicate Juventus’s search to bring in another centre-forward, given that David still earns a significant salary and selling Lois Openda outright this summer seems like an impossible task. 

And, with an expected drop in budget of around €50m-€60m without access to the Champions League, stumping up the cash to sign a new, starting centre-forward while keeping both David and Openda on board is a difficult task to say the least.

Scotland and Morocco meet in a fascinating Group C clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with both nations heading into the game in a confident mood after positive opening results.

BUY SCOTLAND VS. MOROCCO TICKETS

For Scotland, this fixture already feels like a major opportunity. Steve Clarke’s side began their campaign with a gritty 1-0 win over Haiti, a result that gave them three precious points and their first World Cup victory since 1990.

It was not always pretty, but it was exactly the kind of disciplined, hard-working performance that has come to define this Scotland team.

Morocco, meanwhile, opened their tournament with an impressive 1-1 draw against Brazil.

The Atlas Lions showed once again that their run to the semi-finals in 2022 was no fluke.

Compact, aggressive and technically sharp in transition, they frustrated one of the tournament favourites and now face Scotland knowing a win could put them in a very strong position to progress from the group.

How Scotland could line up against Morocco

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Scotland appear to be in a healthy position heading into the match.

There are no major injury concerns currently confirmed, giving Steve Clarke the option to either stick with the side that beat Haiti or make one or two changes to freshen up the attack.

One interesting decision could involve Ben Doak. The young winger started against Haiti and offered directness, but there have been suggestions Clarke may consider rotating his forward line depending on how he wants to approach Morocco’s defensive structure.

John McGinn is almost certain to keep his place after scoring the winner, while Andy Robertson, Scott McTominay and Angus Gunn should remain key figures in the spine of the team.

Scotland Predicted Line-up: Gunn, Hickey, Hanley, Hendry, Robertson, McTominay, Ferguson, Doak, McGinn, Christie, Adams.

How Morocco could line up against Scotland

Morocco are expected to stay close to the structure they used against Brazil.

Bounou gives them elite experience in goal, Hakimi remains their most dangerous outlet from right-back, and Ounahi provides creativity between midfield and attack.

Saibari’s goal against Brazil should strengthen his case to start again, while Brahim Díaz will be one of Morocco’s main threats in possession.

Morocco Predicted Line-up: Bounou, Hakimi, Diop, Riad, Mazraoui, Aynaoui, Bouaddi, Díaz, Ounahi, El Khannous, Saibari.

How to buy Scotland tickets

Tickets for Scotland fixtures can be purchased via the official website, although that route is not always the most convenient or straightforward option for fans.

Because of that, we recommend using our trusted link, which provides a reliable and more budget-friendly way to secure match tickets.

How to buy Morocco tickets

BUY SCOTLAND VS. MOROCCO TICKETS

Morocco fans often buy their match tickets through the official website, which can be accessed here, but it is always a good idea to compare other options in case better deals are available.

For a quicker and more convenient process, we suggest using our recommended link. It can help you avoid extra membership charges and skip long waiting times for popular fixtures.

The platform is easy to navigate and provides added security for supporters, including a 150% money-back guarantee.

Scotland vs Morocco head-to-head record

Scotland and Morocco have met once before at a World Cup, and it was a painful day for the Scots.

Their only previous World Cup meeting came in 1998, when Morocco beat Scotland 3-0 in the group stage.

Salaheddine Bassir scored twice, while Abdeljalil Hadda also found the net.

Scotland had Craig Burley sent off in the second half, and the defeat confirmed their group-stage exit.

That match remains Morocco’s only win over Scotland, but it also gives this fixture an interesting historical edge. Scotland will be desperate to avoid a repeat, while Morocco will hope history can work in their favour again.

Reports in Italy claim that Roma are prepared to increase their current offer for Mason Greenwood, but there is a race against time to strike a deal with Marseille, who must raise funds before the end of the month to comply with FFP regulations. 

Where Roma stand in negotiations for Greenwood

Roma have been targeting the signing of former Manchester United forward Greenwood for several weeks and recent updates claim that there is an agreement in principle on personal terms with the 24-year-old for an initial salary of €4.5m per season, which could rise over the years. 

Roma have not yet come to an agreement with Marseille as things stand, though. Reports in Italy claim that Marseille value the Englishman in the region of €50m-€55m, while the Giallorossi have tabled an offer of €40m made up of an initial €5m loan fee, a €25m transfer fee and guaranteed bonuses of €10m. 

According to Thursday’s reports from the Corriere dello Sport, Roma are prepared to raise their offer to €45m including bonuses. 

Marseille, meanwhile, have been left needing to sell players in order to raise funds to comply with FFP regulations. Roma themselves learned on Wednesday that they will be fined €6m for failing to comply with the terms of an FFP settlement agreement during the financial year ending in 2025, but for Marseille, the situation is more severe and the club risk being excluded from UEFA competitions for the next three years if they do not raise funds before the end of June. 

From a budgeting perspective, it is important to remember that if Marseille were to sell a big-name player like Greenwood, they would be able to record a capital gain in full on their accounts for the current season, Meanwhile, if Roma were to sign Greenwood, they would be able to spread the cost of his purchase over several years of the player’s contract in the club’s accounts. 

Roma hope that the deadline for Marseille to raise funds will play into their hands and that the French side may be forced into lowering their asking price within the next few days. 

There is still pressure on Roma to get a deal done, as there have been suggestions that Atletico Madrid are also interested in a potential deal for Greenwood this summer.

Fabio Paratici refuses to rule out Moise Kean’s summer exit, but insists Fiorentina want to retain Cher Ndour and are interested in Luca Koleosho.

Paratici held a press conference at the Viola Park on Thursday to discuss the Tuscans’ plans for the summer transfer window.

“The ownership is very strong; it wants to build a competitive and lasting Fiorentina over the years. I want to emphasise these two words: competitive and lasting,” he said via LaViola.it.

“The ownership, I add, needs time. Things don’t happen in two weeks. It takes time to build lasting and competitive things.”

Paratici had met with Kean’s agent on Wednesday.

“We are in a transfer window. There are discussions with the footballers and their entourages. It’s a normal thing. I’m definitely not here to tell you the whole truth of what we say to each other with players and their entourage during this transfer window, to be honest,” Paratici said.

“As for Kean, he is absolutely a heritage of Italian football and Fiorentina. Everyone knows how fond I am of him; I watched him grow from when he was nine years old until the Champions League.

“I’ve also already sold him once under my management. I am as fond of him as I am of all the footballers I have had. But we are in a market period. We hope and want him to be our No.9. But all football clubs are not masters of their fate on the market, apart from the top five or six in the world.

“I believe it is a sincere and realistic response for our fans. First of all, because it takes respect, but also to educate people about what’s happening in the world of the market and football in general.”

Fiorentina parted ways with coach Paolo Vanoli a few weeks ago and hired Fabio Grosso.

“Grosso was the only candidate. We liked the profile and everything that follows,” Paratici said.

Fiorentina have not won a trophy in over 20 years.

“You always need a minimum correlation between dream and goal. They should be as closely related as possible,” noted Paratici.

“Yesterday my son, who plays football, told me his dream is to play in the World Cup. I told him that if his goal is to play in the World Cup, we risk getting disappointed. It’s best if we set a realistic goal and a dream that’s close to it. That’s not to say you don’t want to try to win. But the dream remains a dream and a goal becomes a goal.”

Fiorentina failed to qualify for European competitions in 2025-26, does Paratici fear the club has lost appeal?

“No, Fiorentina have not lost appeal. The clubs have not lost appeal. Liverpool didn’t win for 20 years, and all the footballers wanted to go there. Manchester United haven’t won in so many years, but ask any footballer if they don’t want to go play for them.

“The clubs are historic; they have their own historic relevance regardless of the sporting result. Then it’s clear that if you play the Champions League, you’re more attractive.”

U21 Italy international Ndour has been linked with Juventus, but Paratici is not considering selling him, contrary to Dodo.

“Ndour is at the heart of Fiorentina’s project, absolutely,” Paratici said.

“He’s just getting started; he needs to confirm himself. This is another point I would like to emphasise, not only for Fiorentina but for Italian football. We cannot beatify players after twelve matches. We can have a positive or negative impression. We don’t even have to crucify them.

“We need to find a balance. Ndour had a very good second half of the season. He’s growing. We expect him to improve even further next season.

“Dodo is 28 years old and has legitimate ambitions. Like Fiorentina have them. We’ll see what happens in the next few days or months.”

During an interview with Sky Sport Italia, Paratici also confirmed interest in Burnley-owned Koleosho: “Everyone likes good players. Koleosho is a good player, like others in the U21 team,” Paratici concluded.

Paratici took charge of Fiorentina in February 2026 so this is the first transfer window he’ll oversee at the Stadio Franchi.

Sky Sport Italia reports that Marco Palestra is closing in on a move to Inter after the latest meeting between the Serie A champions and Atalanta today.

Inter are close to reaching a full agreement with Atalanta for Palestra, according to Sky Sport Italia.

Latest meeting brings Palestra closer to Inter

The Italian broadcasters claim that a meeting between the two clubs took place on Thursday morning, helping the newly crowned Serie A champions move closer to Atalanta’s demands.

According to the report, the two parties hope to shake hands by the end of next week.

Currently, the two parties are discussing the bonus structure and a potential sell-on clause for Atalanta, so an agreement is not too far away.

Palestra has also attracted interest from the Premier League, especially Chelsea and Manchester City.

Sky Sport, however, already reported a few days ago that the promising Italian defender was willing to wait for Inter and Atalanta to reach an agreement, having prioritised a move to San Siro.

Inter have planned to make Palestra their replacement for Denzel Dumfries, who is set to move to Real Madrid in a €20m deal.

The latest episode of the Football Italia summer show is not live on YouTube. Giancarlo Rinaldi joined us to discuss the next Juventus moves, including the future of Andrea Cambiaso and the Bianconeri’s search for a new striker.

Both Chelsea and Barcelona have shown interest in Juventus defender Cambiaso, and according to Gazzetta, both sides are eager to discuss swap deals with the Bianconeri, who need to make a €20m capital gain by the end of the month.

Football Italia Summer Show, June 18: Juventus, Cambiaso, Kean and more

Chelsea have reportedly offered Nicolas Jackson as part of a swap deal, while Barcelona want to include Ronald Araujo in negotiations with the Bianconeri.

“From a selfish Italian national team point of view, I’d like to see him where he plays regularly and not another kind of Chiesa, making a big move and not playing any football at all,” Gincarlo Rinaldi said during the latest episode of our Summer Show on YouTube.

Juventus are also chasing a new centre forward and, aside from Jackson, the most concrete options on the table are Alexander Sorloth and Randal Kolo Muani. The latter already played for Juventus in the second half of the 2024-25 campaign, scoring ten goals in 22 appearances in Turin.

Giancarlo, however, feels that Sorloth would be the best option for the Old Lady.

Check out the full show below.

Italy missing the 2018 World Cup was hard enough to take. Missing 2022 after winning the Euros made no sense to many supporters. Now 2026 has gone as well, and there is only so long a country can keep calling this a shock.

The Azzurri will not be at the next World Cup, even with the tournament expanded to 48 teams. Europe has more places, too, so there was no hiding behind a narrow format this time. For a country with four World Cup titles, this is not one bad campaign. It is a serious football problem.

The last hit came in Zenica. Italy drew 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off final, then lost the shoot-out 4-1. Moise Kean gave them the start they wanted, but Alessandro Bastoni’s red card before half-time changed the mood completely. Bosnia stayed alive, Haris Tabakovic levelled late, and Italy once again found a way to make a World Cup place slip away.

The group stage had already made things messy. Norway beat Italy 3-0 in Oslo in June 2025, and it was not a strange result from one lucky night. Alexander Sorloth scored early, Antonio Nusa added another, and Erling Haaland made it 3-0 before half-time. Italy had plenty of the ball, but Norway had the parts that mattered: speed, bite, and clear chances.

That result cost Luciano Spalletti his job and pushed the federation towards Gennaro Gattuso.

It is too easy to say Italy simply froze. They did, in moments, but this was not only a mental collapse. The team had gaps that never really went away. The defence still had strong names, including Donnarumma, Bastoni, and Calafiori when available, but it did not look as secure as old Italian teams. The midfield had quality through Barella, Tonali, and others, but it rarely carried matches with real force. Up front, Italy still looked like a side trying to decide who they were.

Kean, Retegui, Scamacca, Raspadori, Lucca, and the younger Pio Esposito all offer something different. None of them became the clear, cold, reliable striker Italy needed during the campaign. That matters in qualifying. Tight games often come down to one early chance, one ugly finish, or one forward who can bully a match into submission.

Italy have had plenty of good footballers. They have not had enough players on the national team to feel settled.

The Euro 2020 win now looks even stranger in the middle of this run. Italy were brave, sharp, and full of life under Roberto Mancini. They pressed well, moved the ball quickly, and won the final at Wembley against England. At the time, it felt like a rebuild had arrived early. Now it looks more like a peak that the system could not hold.

Since then, the national team has kept changing faces without changing the deeper story. Mancini left. Spalletti arrived. Gattuso arrived. Results improved in small patches, then collapsed when the pressure returned. Gabriele Gravina’s resignation after the latest failure only confirmed how deep the embarrassment had become.

There is also a club problem sitting under the national team. Serie A remains a strong league, and Italian clubs still produce tactical detail that many countries envy. But the pathway for Italian attackers and young players has not been clean enough. Too many prospects get minutes late, move often, or sit behind older and foreign players, which slows their development.

That is not a simple “too many foreigners” argument. The better question is why Italian clubs do not trust enough young Italian players early enough, especially in attacking positions. Spain, France, Germany, and England have found ways to throw young players into serious football sooner. Italy still talks about talent for years before fully using it.

The 2026 World Cup will still have plenty of Serie A interest. Argentina, Brazil, France, the United States, and others will bring players from Italian clubs. Italy will watch its league represented while its own national team stays home. That is a painful little detail.

There is also a betting angle around this World Cup, especially now Italy’s absence has changed the market for outright winners, top scorers, and group betting. For readers who still want to follow the tournament that way, OnlineBookies has a list of the best new betting sites that includes newer platforms with football markets and World Cup-specific offers.

For Italy, though, no market or outside story softens the truth. They have not scored a World Cup goal since Mario Balotelli against England in 2014. By the time 2030 arrives, a whole generation of supporters will have grown up without seeing Italy play at a World Cup.

That is almost impossible to process for a country that gave the game Paolo Rossi, Roberto Baggio, Fabio Cannavaro, Andrea Pirlo, and Gianluigi Buffon. Italy are tied with Germany for the most World Cup wins, behind only Brazil. They are not supposed to be a side people discuss during qualifying post-mortems every four years.

The answer to what went wrong is not one red card, one coach, one penalty shoot-out, or one bad night in Bosnia. It is all of those things sitting on top of years of weak planning, striker uncertainty, unstable leadership, and a football culture that still does not quite know how to move from pride to repair.

Italy do not need another slogan about rebuilding. They have had enough of those. They need a clearer youth pathway, bolder squad choices, a stronger attacking identity, and a federation that stops treating failure as a shock.

The Azzurri can come back. Countries with that much football history usually do. But 2030 cannot be treated as another chance to hope. It has to be treated as the deadline for finally fixing what three missed World Cups have already made obvious.

Having failed to match Juventus’ asking price for Andrea Cambiaso, Chelsea have asked the Bianconeri to consider including Nicolas Jackson in a swap deal, according to Gazzetta.

Juventus defender Cambiaso is attracting interest from several European clubs, especially Barcelona and Chelsea, with the Bianconeri forced to sell one of their players by the end of June to make a capital gain and comply with FFP regulations.

Cambiaso transfer: latest updates as Chelsea explore swap deal

Gazzetta reported on Wednesday that Barcelona were eager to include Ronald Araujo in a player-plus cash swap deal, while, still according to Gazzetta, Chelsea are open to including Senegal international Jackson in negotiations with the Old Lady.

Cambiaso has a low amortised cost in Juventus’ balance sheet, so he’s practically the most sellable player in the team right now.

The Bianconeri value the Italy international at €40m, but Chelsea’s opening offer is only around € 27m- €28m, according to Gazzetta.

Therefore, the Blues have asked Juventus to consider the potential inclusion of Jackson in the deal, given that the Bianconeri are looking for a new centre-forward for next season.

Jackson has returned to Stamford Bridge after a one-season loan spell at Bayern Munich.

Juventus keep their eyes open for a new centre-forward and have also opened talks for Alexander Sorloth (Atletico Madrid) and Randal Kolo Muani (PSG).

Rafael Leao has opened up about his future at Milan for the first time since his compatriot Ruben Amorim was appointed as the Rossoneri boss.

Leao’s time at Milan might be over following a disappointing 2025-26 season at San Siro under Massimiliano Allegri.

Leao comments on Milan future after Amorim’s appointment

The Portuguese winger struggled with injuries and played for the whole campaign out of position. Over the last few weeks, he repeatedly said he would be looking for a new challenge during the summer transfer window, and it’s unclear whether his plans will change following Amorim’s appointment as the new Diavoli boss.

“Now I only think about the World Cup and helping my national team. When the World Cup is over, I’ll think about my future,” Leao said on Wednesday, following Portugal’s 1-1 draw against DR Congo at the World Cup.

Leao started on the bench and was introduced in the second half.

“I tried to give my best. Sometimes there are games when you don’t score or assist, but that doesn’t mean you were sloppy,” he added, via Sky Sport.

They defended well, with two or three defenders close to me, but I still tried to go one-v-one and do well. The team is the most important thing. We have to raise our heads and work. We must win the next game.

Milan have appointed Amorim on a three-year deal, but have yet to rebuild the club’s management after failing to bring in both Ralf Rangnick and Markus Kroche as Football Director.

Leao remains under contract with Milan until June 2028 and has a €175m release clause.

Sky Sport Italia reports that both Juventus and Napoli have shown interest in Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario after Inter opted for Lazio’s Ivan Provedel instead.

Napoli and Juventus have set their sights on Tottenham keeper Vicario, according to Sky Sport Italia transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio.

Vicario transfer news: latest updates with interest from Serie A

Inter had chased the Italy international for several weeks in the past, but the Nerazzurri eventually decided to pick Provedel from Lazio and promote Josep Martinez to a starting role for 2026-27 following Yann Sommer’s exit as a free agent.

The Serie A interest in Vicario, however, remains very much alive, with both Juventus and Napoli tracking the ex-Empoli and Cagliari keeper.

Juventus have made Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez their primary target for a goalkeeper, but they have not yet reached an agreement with the Premier League club and would consider Vicario if he were less expensive than the Argentine.

Napoli, on the other hand, would only open formal talks for Vicario’s return to Serie A if one of their goalkeepers, Vanja Milinkovic-Savic or Alex Meret, were to leave this summer.

Paolo Maldini reacts to Lionel Messi’s hat-trick with a social media message: ‘No words needed, simply the best.’

Argentine legend Messi scored three goals in the Albiceleste’s 2026 World Cup debut against Algeria on Wednesday, leaving ex-Milan and Italy star Maldini impressed.

The legendary defender reacted to Messi’s latest World Cup display with an Instagram story: “No words needed, simply the best,” Maldini wrote, posting a picture of the Argentine superstar’s goal celebration.

Maldini participated in four World Cups, finishing 3rd in 1990 and second in 1994, when Italy lost the final on penalties to Brazil.

Maldini’s reaction to Messi’s hat-trick

Follow Football Italia on YouTube: watch our latest show below

La Gazzetta dello Sport

The king is always Leo

Messi wants the double that only Pelé could make; this is how he can overtake Maradona as well. ‘We are a marvellous group.’ Cristiano doesn’t work; Kane yes: scores twice.

Cardinale’s choices

Double setback, what a blow: Krosche and Hardung are no longer coming

FFP: Inter and Milan ok, Roma fined

Corriere dello Sport

Messi impresses, Ronaldo fails

If this is Milan: Krosche and Hardung deals collapse, Maignan and Leão to break away

Krosche and Hardung deals collapse, Maignan and Leao to break away

Amorim has signed for three years, but there’s a lack of management structure to plan ahead. The arrival of the two Eintracht managers falls apart. Modric won’t renew, Mike and Rafa want to leave.

Exclusive Gravina: ‘I’ll bring the bill.’

Inter done deal: Provedel arrives

Napoli, Lukaku perfect for Max

Roma, effort needed for Greenwood

Reggina to Lotito: signatures arrive

Tuttosport

Dibu, Kolo and Sorloth wait for Juve

The Bianconeri are confident that the requests for the goalkeeper and the strikers will decrease. There’s always Vicario as an alternative. Carnevali is waiting for signals from Brahim Diaz and studies the youth sector in Vinovo. Cambiaso between Chelsea and Barça (swap deal with Araujo?)

Messiah

Messiah: hat-trick and tears to rewrite history

Ravaglia rivals Falcone

Chivu signs, three gifts for Inter

Cardinale, a mess after the other

Portugal and Ronaldo, double disappointment

Super Kane, Bellingham and Rashford: Come on England

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Inter striker Marcus Thuram has joked that he is ‘a bit jealous’ of Lautaro Martinez and his relationship with Argentina teammate Lionel Messi after the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s hat-trick against Algeria at the 2026 World Cup. 

Thuram jokes with Martinez after Messi’s World Cup masterpiece

It was a performance for the ages as Messi stuck a hat-trick past Algeria to draw level with Miroslav Klose as the joint-highest goalscorer in World Cup history.

Both have 16 to their name and it now seems a matter of when, rather than if, Messi will claim the record for himself. 

Inter captain Lautaro Martinez was also part of the Argentina side that got off to a winning start at the 2026 World cup and shared a series of pictures of himself hugging his legendary teammate to his Instagram profile, captioned: “Victory in the first game, step by step with lots of enthusiasm. Vamos Argentina.” 

Among the commenters was Martinez’s strike partner at club level, Thuram, who replied with a GIF that read: ‘A bit of jealousy there,” which has gone down well among Inter and Argentina supporters alike. 

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Reports in Italy confirm that Milan are set to activate their buy-back option for teenage centre-forward Francesco Camarda, who was loaned and then later sold to Lecce during the 2025-26 campaign. 

Milan to pay circa €500,000 to bring Camarda back from Lecce

Camarda netted an almost unbelievable 485 goals from 89 matches for Milan’s youth teams and has already racked up 33 appearances in Serie A having only turned 18 in March. 

As part of his development, a 17-year-old Camarda was sent out on loan to Lecce at the beginning of the 2025-26 season in order to bring a full season’s-worth of experience playing in the Italian top flight. 

Curiously, that deal also included an option to buy and a buy-back option in favour of the Rossoneri. Lecce confirmed on Tuesday that they have activated their option to buy clause. Lecce’s announcement confirmed that Milan have a buy-back option that will be valid from June 18 until June 20. 

According to the latest updates from Matteo Moretto, Milan intend to activate their buy-back clause and will have to pay Lecce a fee slightly above €500,000 in order to do so.

Wednesday’s reports indicate that Tommaso Baldanzi is all set to join Genoa on a permanent basis after spending the second half of the 2025-26 season on loan from Roma. 

Genoa set to sign Baldanzi on loan with obligation to buy from Roma

Baldanzi joined Genoa on loan with an option to buy during the January transfer window, and despite making just eight appearances under Daniele De Rossi in the second half of the 2025-26 season, the Grifone have renegotiated with Roma and are set to sign the 23-year-old in a permanent deal. 

According to reports from TMW, Baldanzi will rejoin Genoa on another loan deal, but this time with an obligation to buy for a fee of €9.5m. 

This is a slightly lower figure than the option to buy that Genoa negotiated during the January transfer window. 

Wednesday’s reports claim that Baldanzi will sign a contract that will keep him with Genoa until the summer of 2030. 

Baldanzi was originally brought to Roma from Empoli by Genoa head coach De Rossi during the winter transfer window in 2024 in a deal reported to be worth €10m plus bonuses. 

Thomas Tuchel will have to do without Bukayo Saka as England open their 2026 World Cup campaign against a Croatia side that will be led by Milan star Luka Modric, Inter’s Petar Sucic and an entire midfield of players currently plying their trade in Italy.

There are no Serie A representatives among the England squad: Milan’s Fikayo Tomori still not selected despite the recent withdrawal of Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento. Former Genoa full-back Djed Spence is named among the Three Lions substitutes. 

Croatia, meanwhile, have plenty of Serie A representation among their 26-man squad: Fiorentina’s Marin Pongracic, Bologna’s Nikola Moro, Milan’s Modric, Inter’s Sucic, Torino’s Nikola Vlasic, Atalanta’s Mario Pasalic and Como’s Martin Baturina are all available for selection. 

The entirety of the Croatia midfield will be made up of Serie A representatives, with Modric, Pasalic, Baturina and Sucic all selected to start. 

Kick-off is due at 21.00 BST.

England vs. Croatia: Confirmed line-ups 

England (4-2-3-1): Pickford; James, Konsa, Stones, O’Reilly; Rice, Anderson; Madueke, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane.

Subs: Henderson, Trafford, Guehi, Burn, Spence, Quansah, Henderson, Mainoo, Rogers, Eze, Saka, Rashford, Watkins, Toney.

Croatia (4-3-3): Livakovic; Stanisic, Vuskovic, Gvardiol, Sutalo; Modric, Mario Pasalic, P.Sucic; Perisic, Musa, Baturina.

Subs: Pandur, Kotarski, Pongracic, Caleta-Car, Jakic, Erlic, Moro, Kovacic, Vlasic, Fruk, L.Sucic, Kramaric, Budimir, Matanovic, Marco Pasalic.

The agent of Lazio goalkeeper Ivan Provedel has confirmed that his client is closing in on a move to join Inter during the summer transfer window: ‘We’re very close, he’s always been an Inter fan’. 

Inter ‘very close’ to finalising low-cost Provedel deal

According to reports from various sources in Italy, the Nerazzurri are down to the final details of a deal to sign Provedel from Lazio and are hoping to exchange documents with the Biancocelesti within the next few days. 

According to the latest updates from Gianluca Di Marzio, Provedel has agreed to a three-year contract, which would see him through until the age of 35, with wages reported to be worth around €1.5m per season. 

The two clubs reportedly have a verbal agreement over a fee of just €3m for Provedel, who will otherwise be heading into the final year of his contract at the Stadio Olimpico. 

“We’re very close, we’ve been working in the right direction,” said Provedel’s agent Gianni Rava. “I hope that we’ll soon be able to close this transfer. Let’s hope for the best.” 

Rava later added: “Provedel has always been an Inter fan and I think it would be the closing of a full circle for him in terms of his career. He’s a great player and will come here to put his cards on the table, we’ll see. We’re confident.” 

Inter are bringing in Provedel to replace the departing Yann Sommer, who has served as the club’s no.1 for the last three seasons. The 37-year-old is leaving the club upon the expiry of his contract at the end of June. 

The Nerazzurri had been linked with a series of more expensive first-choice options, such as Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario, but have since decided to promote their recent understudy Josep Martinez and bring in an experienced, Serie A-proven back-up option in Provedel instead.

UEFA have confirmed that Roma will be fined for a breach of FFP rules during the financial year ending in 2025, but Milan and Inter have met the terms of their agreements with European football’s governing body and will not be punished. 

Roma fined €6m by UEFA

UEFA imposed a series of restrictions upon Roma for the years spanning from 2022 and 2026 following a breach of financial fair play regulations during the 2021-22 season. The exact terms of the settlement agreement can be read on the UEFA website. 

UEFA have confirmed that in the financial year ending in 2025, Roma ‘slightly exceeded’ their interim financial targets and as a result, have been handed a €2m fine. 

Additionally, Roma broke UEFA’s squad cost ratio in the financial year ending in 2025, exceeding the required 70% limit, and for that breach, the Giallorossi have been fined a further €4m. 

Inter and Milan have also been operating under settlement agreements with UEFA, but according to Sky Sport Italia, they have fully complied with the regulations set out to them and will not face any further punishments.

Catch up on today’s biggest transfer stories from Italy with the latest Football Italia Transfer Show on YouTube.

Leading the headlines is the news that Markus Krösche will not be taking over as Milan’s new Football Director, but that’s just one of the key developments covered in today’s episode.

June 17 Transfer News – Latest Football Italia Show

Cristian Chivu will sign a contract extension with Inter until 2028 after the coach’s agent visited the club’s headquarters today.

Juventus and Roma must make a capital gain by the end of the month to comply with Financial Fair Play, and according to Gazzetta, the Bianconeri have been offered Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo in a swap deal for Andrea Cambiaso.

According to Tuttosport, Tottenham’s Radu Dragusin has also been offered to the Old Lady by the defender’s agents, who are on good terms with Marco Ottolini, Juventus’ sporting director.

Tune in for all the latest transfer updates, rumours, and insights from across Italian football.

Watch the full episode below: