Adrien Rabiot admitted Milan must improve defensively after their 2-0 defeat to Napoli in the Supercoppa Italiana semi-final, insisting the Rossoneri cannot hide behind absences as they look to reset for the league campaign.

Speaking to Mediaset at full time, with quotes via MilanNews, the Milan midfielder rejected the idea that missing attacking players was the decisive factor in Riyadh. “Even without Gimenez and Leao we managed to score on other occasions this season, it doesn’t depend on who’s missing,” Rabiot explained.

Instead, he pointed to structural issues within the team. “We have to rediscover compactness and solidity. We’re conceding too many chances and too many goals. Defensively we’re a bit light.”

Napoli 2-0 Milan – Rabiot reacts to Supercoppa defeat

Rabiot stressed that margins are slim at this level and that Milan failed to make the most of key moments. “We also have to do better in attack, because in games like this you don’t get ten chances,” he said. “It was an important match and it hurts to go out. Now we have to get back on track.”

The France international was also asked about refereeing decisions, including protests over a challenge on Matteo Politano.

While he felt a red card would have been harsh, Rabiot acknowledged wider frustrations. “It wasn’t a red card, but refereeing mistakes happen,” he said. “They’ve been happening for many teams, not just Milan. At the moment referees aren’t doing well.”

However, Rabiot was quick to take responsibility. “This match depended on us. We could have done much better,” he concluded. “These things can happen during a season, it’s not the end of the world.”

Massimiliano Allegri urged calm and clarity after Milan’s 2-0 defeat to Napoli, insisting the Rossoneri must remain focused on their primary objective of securing a top-four finish despite another cup exit.

Speaking to Mediaset after the Supercoppa semi-final loss, with quotes via MilanNews, Allegri acknowledged Napoli’s superiority on the night, particularly in defensive phases. “We faced a strong Napoli and we knew that,” the Milan coach said. “We could have done better on the two goals. It was a well-played match by both teams, but they defended better and deserved to win.”

Allegri was keen to remove any controversy surrounding officiating. “The referee did very well, as did the entire officiating team,” he stressed, before turning attention inward. “Lately we’re conceding goals a bit too easily and we need to improve. This defeat should be seen as an opportunity to get back on our feet.”

Napoli 2-0 Milan – Allegri: ‘We must stay calm if we want top four; Nkunku is improving’

Despite the scoreline, Allegri felt Milan created promising situations. “We had favourable moments and managed the ball quite well,” he explained. “We needed to attack the box better. If you make mistakes like we did for the first goal, you must defend better. When you concede two goals in three consecutive matches that could have been avoided, you have to understand how to do better.”

Asked whether Milan could switch back to a back four, Allegri urged patience. “One match can’t overturn three months of work,” he said. “We need to analyse things with serenity. Only calm can help us achieve our objective, which is finishing in the top four.”

Allegri also defended Christopher Nkunku, praising his attitude despite another goalless outing. “He worked hard tonight and had good situations,” Allegri said. “He has great qualities and they will come out. One goal could unlock him, we need to keep believing.”

Tempers flared and anger boiled over in tonight’s Supercoppa Italiana semi-final between Napoli and Milan. The Partenopei won 2-0 but the match saw a number of heavy challenges and a late scrap between Fikayo Tomori and Scott McTominay.

The tension bled over to the coaches, with Antonio Conte and Massimiliano Allegri having several spats over the course of the ninety minutes.

And, at full time, Allegri quickly left the field, without so much as a handshake for his counterpart.

Relive all the action, as it happened, on our LiveBlog.

Tense Supercoppa ends in victory for Napoli

As far as events on the field, it was a comfortable night in the end for Conte and Napoli.

David Neres put Conte’s side up in the first half, after a nice piece of play by Rasmus Hojlund and some sloppy defensive work from Milan duo Koni De Winter and Mike Maignan.

Then, in the second half, Hojlund doubled his side’s lead – once again playing the hero, less than two weeks after his brace in Napoli’s win over Juventus.

Napoli defeated Milan 2-0 this evening in their Supercoppa Italiana semi-final, with goals from David Neres and Rasmus Hojlund separating the two teams.

Football Italia’s Player of the Match was Napoli forward Rasmus Hojlund, for his involvement with both goals helping prove the difference between the two sides.

Napoli 2-0 Milan – Player Ratings

Napoli: Milinkovic-Savic 7.5; Jesus 6.5, Rrahmani 7, Di Lorenzo 6; Spinazzola 7, McTominay 6, Lobotka 6.5, Politano 6.5; Elmas 6.5, Neres 7; Hojlund 7.5

Best Napoli player: Rasmus Hojlund – After his heroics in Napoli’s recent win over Juventus, the Great Dane has once again come up clutch when it matters for Conte’s side. Did very well to create the space and opportunity for Neres’ opener, even if helped somewhat on its way by Koni De Winter and Mike Maignan, then wrapped up the match with his goal assisted by Spinazzola.

Lowest Napoli Rating: Giovanni Di Lorenzo – The more you watch Di Lorenzo at centre-back, the less right it feels to have Di Lorenzo at centre-back. Did not have a large amount to do today but looked slightly hesitant in his defensive duels. Looked better the further up the pitch he was.

Coach: Conte 7 – Another big domestic victory for Conte, whose struggles on the continent seem planets away from their competence against Italian opposition. Set up his team well to counter the Milan threat but was helped by a little bit of good fortune on the night.

Milan: Maignan 5; Pavlovic 6.5, De Winter 5, Tomori 5.5; Estupinan 6.5, Rabiot 6, Jashari 6, Loftus Cheek 6, Saelemaekers 7; Pulisic 6, Nkunku 6

Best Milan player: Alexis Saelemaekers – Fresh from a renewed contract, the Belgian was easily Milan’s best player during his hour or so on the pitch. Created a number of chances for the Rossoneri, repaying Allegri’s faith in him. However, was let down by his teammates.

Lowest Milan rating: Mike Maignan – Could’ve gone to Koni De Winter just as much as the Frenchman but Maignan’s consistent excellence makes his bad days stand out more. Was left flailing on the ground for Neres’ opener and was beaten from a very tight angle for Hojlund’s goal.

Coach: Allegri 6 – Tried to experiment and was somewhat rewarded with rare glimpses of excellence from the likes of Estupinan and Nkunku, who have taken time to settle since their arrival in Lombardy. However, was generally outclassed by his counterpart Conte.

Relive all the action, as it happened, on our Live Blog.

Rasmus Hojlund has once again proven his big game credentials with a goal and an assist in Napoli’s Supercoppa Italiana semi-final against Milan.

The Danish forward did fantastically well for his goal, beating Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan from a tight angle, slicing the ball across the goal into the far corner.

The Danish forward continues a run of scoring when it matters, eleven days after his brace for Conte’s side against Juventus earlier this month.

Relive all the action from tonight’s Supercoppa clash, as it happened, on our Live Blog.

Watch: Hojlund doubles Napoli lead over Milan

Absolutely clinical from Rasmus Hojlund!

An outstanding finish from the angle to double Napoli’s lead pic.twitter.com/a1rmNvURz5

— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) December 18, 2025

David Neres put Napoli in the lead against Milan in tonight’s Supercoppa Italiana semi-final, with a touching moment after his goal where the Brazilian ran over to the touchline to celebrate with injured striker Romelu Lukaku.

After some nice play by Rasmus Hojlund and some sloppy defending from the Rossoneri, Neres was able to tap the ball in from close range to put Antonio Conte’s side in the lead.

You can follow all the action from the match, as it happens, on our Liveblog.

Watch: Neres scores for Napoli & celebrates with Lukaku

David Neres fires Napoli in front against Milan

Good work by Rasmus Hojlund created the chance for the tap in pic.twitter.com/xcla2CfEPq

— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) December 18, 2025

GOAL! David Neres is quickest to react and taps it in! #NapoliMilan 1-0 pic.twitter.com/LSM6Dkws8x

— Lega Serie A (@SerieA_EN) December 18, 2025

Fiorentina sporting director Roberto Goretti has urged unity and clarity of purpose as the Viola prepare for their Conference League clash against Lausanne, describing the current phase of the season as a decisive turning point both on and off the pitch.

Speaking to Sky Sport ahead of kick-off, with quotes via Di Marzio, Goretti addressed team selection, the atmosphere within the squad and the looming January transfer window.

With several rotation players expected to feature, he acknowledged the internal competition for places. “The players who have played less will want to show the coach that he’s wrong not to pick them,” Goretti said, framing the match as an opportunity rather than a risk.

Fiorentina director Goretti: ‘It’s time to turn on the light’

The director then offered a candid assessment of Fiorentina’s recent journey, highlighting the emotional and psychological challenges faced by the group.

“We need to rediscover the right balance so that everyone shares the same objective,” he explained. Goretti revealed that discussions within the club have focused on retracing recent events, from early-season confidence to deeper struggles.

“At the start of the season we lived through a period of ‘presumption’, then came confusion, until we reached a dark moment that we’re now trying to move beyond. It’s time to turn on the light. From now on, everything is decisive.”

Looking ahead to the transfer market, Goretti stressed preparation over haste. “December is important, knowing that January is coming and Fiorentina must be ready,” he said. “But before that, the club has to take an internal step forward to arrive there in the right way.”

You can follow all the action from today’s game on our LiveBlog.

Inter are continuing to assess their options on the right flank as uncertainty grows around Denzel Dumfries, with Fiorentina wing-back Dodo emerging as a concrete target.

The Dutch international recently underwent surgery, a setback that is expected to keep him sidelined until mid-March, forcing Inter to accelerate their planning for the position.

With Dumfries facing a long lay-off and his longer-term future still unresolved, the Nerazzurri are actively evaluating alternative solutions.

Fiorentina wing-back Dodo joins long list of Inter targets

According to TuttoMercatoWeb, via FCInter1908, Inter are “looking for Dumfries’ replacement” and view Dodo as more than just an idea. The Brazilian full-back, currently a key figure at Fiorentina, is appreciated for his pace, intensity and suitability for a wing-back role in a back-three system.

Dodo had already been linked with Inter during the summer transfer window, but rumours have now resurfaced following Dumfries’ injury.

The Fiorentina defender remains under contract in Florence, meaning any potential move would require negotiations, but the Nerazzurri are understood to be keeping a close watch on the situation.

At this stage, no formal talks have been confirmed, but Dodo’s profile fits Chivu’s side’s technical requirements as they look to ensure depth and reliability on the right side during a crucial phase of the season.

Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso believes tonight’s Supercoppa Italiana semi-final between Milan and Napoli is finely balanced, while also using the occasion to reflect on the state of Italian football and potential new options for the national team.

Speaking to Sport Mediaset from Riyadh shortly before kick-off, with quotes via TMW, Gattuso, a former player for both clubs, underlined the tactical organisation on display.

“The match is open. Both teams are well organised and the two coaches make the difference,” he said. “They both defend very well, so scoring goals will be difficult. It’s hard to understand who could win.”

Gattuso drops Bartesaghi, Palestra & Zaniolo Italy clues

The Italy coach confirmed he would be closely monitoring several players who could enter the Azzurri picture. Asked specifically about Davide Bartesaghi, Gattuso was open-minded.

“Why not? He’s doing very well, just like other young players, Palestra, Zaniolo,” he explained. “We’ll see what kind of performance he puts in, but their consistency is there for everyone to see.”

Gattuso was also asked about the limited Italian presence in Serie A line-ups, with Milan expected to field no Italian starters and Napoli three. He acknowledged the issue but urged perspective. “We know the situation,” he said. “But there are also players like Ricci and Gabbia, who I recently called up before his injury.”

He added that Italians currently make up around 23-24 per cent of Serie A squads, warning against dwelling on the problem. “There’s no point going on about it or crying over ourselves,” Gattuso insisted. “We have to look forward. There’s one objective for the whole football system and for the country – returning to the World Cup.”

With crucial months ahead, Gattuso was clear about priorities. “In three months we’re playing for a lot. All our energy has to go towards that goal.”

Lega Serie A President Ezio Simonelli has confirmed that February’s match between Milan and Como will go ahead in Perth, Australia as planned.

Simonelli spoke to Sport Mediaset from the Supercoppa Italiana in Riyadh, prior to Milan’s match against Napoli this evening.

You can follow all the action, as it happens, on our LiveBlog.

“We are very satisfied with the success this event is having, so seeing the stadium sold out shows this process of internationalising Serie A is doing well, getting people accustomed to cheering on these Italian teams,” Simonelli told Sport Mediaset.

“Even walking around Riyadh, we saw people with Milan and Napoli shirts, they were very enthusiastic. This is all proof that our activities are having results.”

The fixture is set to kick off at 19:00 GMT (20:00 CET), with a lot on the line for both clubs in what promises to be an exciting match.

Simonelli confirms Milan-Como Serie A clash for Australia after Infantino talks

Simonelli then turned his attention to February’s match between Milan and Como, confirming that the fixture will take place in Australia.

“Milan-Como will be played in Perth on February 8 as planned. We met Infantino in Doha, it was a very cordial meeting as always. We had a series of doubts over some of the conditions that had been set, which we considered impractical, for example being asked to use Asian Federation referees, as we have great faith in our Italian referees.”

Finally, he discussed the hurdles in arranging the fixtures and how iconic former referee Pierluigi Collina assisted in easing the worries of the league.

“However, Pierluigi Collina reassured us on the quality of the Asian referees, and highlighted a couple of officials who could be assigned the game. That was the most difficult thing to accept, the biggest obstacle, but we have overcome that thanks to the reassurances of Collina.”

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has pushed back against criticism surrounding his trophy record at Old Trafford, invoking Roma icon Francesco Totti as an example of how greatness should not be measured solely by silverware.

Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, Fernandes reflected on his time at Manchester United, stressing loyalty and responsibility during some of the club’s most difficult periods.

Since arriving in 2020, the Portuguese midfielder has often been one of United’s most influential figures, but has also faced scrutiny amid the club’s struggles to consistently challenge for major honours.

Bruno Fernandes revealed that he had opportunities to leave the club, but chose to stay. “When I arrived, beyond loving the club, I think my loyalty was similar to what I felt during the toughest periods,” he explained. “I could have left on two occasions. I refused, and the club also said no, they said they needed me.”

Bruno Fernandes points to Totti legacy at Roma to justify Man Utd record

Bruno Fernandes admitted frustration over the lack of trophies, but questioned the modern tendency to judge players purely by honours won. “Obviously my time here hasn’t been how I wanted it to be, because I wanted to win trophies and I haven’t won as many as I should or could have,” he said, adding that “nowadays people talk about players being better or worse depending on the trophies they win.”

Fernandes then pointed to Totti’s legacy at Roma, drawing a clear parallel. “If you look back, Totti is known as one of the best players in Italy, and unfortunately for him he didn’t win many trophies. But everyone still says he’s one of the best to ever play for Italy,” he noted. “Roma haven’t won much since his time either, yet he is still the God of Rome.”

Addressing his critics directly, Fernandes acknowledged that a different career path might have brought more success. “I could have chosen another route and probably won more trophies,” he admitted. “People might talk about me differently because of that.” However, he concluded that his contribution still matters: “I believe what I’ve done for the club has been important, without taking anything away from the other players who have been here.”

A Montenegrin forward linked with Milan inevitably brings memories of Dejan Savicevic, but this time the Rossoneri are looking firmly to the future.

According to the Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan are in talks to sign Andrej Kostic, a 2007-born striker from Partizan Belgrade, as part of what is shaping up to be a busy January transfer window. The teenage attacker, born in Podgorica, is being considered as a developmental signing rather than an immediate first-team solution.

The Rossoneri are already expected to strengthen their attack with the likely arrival of Niclas Fullkrug on loan with an option to buy, while the plan also includes adding at least two young players to integrate into the club’s long-term project. After recent reports involving Arizala, Kostic has now emerged as the most concrete name in attack.

Milan eye Partizan youngster dubbed ‘the new Vlahovic’

Kostic is capable of playing as a centre-forward or second striker and has an imposing physical profile, standing at 188cm. He joined Partizan from Buducnost in the summer and settled quickly, earning early comparisons in Serbia to Dusan Vlahovic. The youngster has already scored eight goals in the Serbian league this season, making him Partizan’s second-highest scorer.

He has also made an impression internationally, scoring for Montenegro Under-21s against Italy in La Spezia on September 5, before the Azzurrini turned the match around through Lipani and Koleosho.

Negotiations are underway but not yet completed. Milan are expected to value the deal between €5m and €10m, with Milan Futuro seen as a likely initial destination. Kostic is not considered ready to make an immediate impact in the first team, but regular minutes in Serie D would give him the chance to develop and potentially catch the eye of Massimiliano Allegri.

January may still feel distant, but for Milan’s recruitment team, it has already begun.

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

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

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

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

Vlahovic contract concern for Juventus as Barcelona & Bayern circle

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

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

Milan are also said to be monitoring the Serbian.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inter need grows as Dumfries undergoes surgery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fiorentina coach Vanoli keen not to underestimate Lausanne

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inter & Genoa reach agreement to end Carboni loan early

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leao set to miss Milan Supercoppa clash with Napoli

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

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

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

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

Allegri also confirmed further injury setbacks within the squad.

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

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

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

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

Fullkrug will miss Milan trip to Cagliari

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Icardi role at Galatasaray diminishes amid Italy & Spain links

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

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

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

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

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

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

De Vrij could leave Inter as Nerazzurri eye Muharemovic

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

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

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

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

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