Como are pressing ahead with their bid to secure Mattia Liberali from Serie B side Catanzaro, positioning themselves ahead of several rivals for the attacking midfielder’s signature. The Lombardy club have emerged as the most serious suitors despite competition from established top-flight teams.
Liberali departed AC Milan permanently last summer seeking regular first-team football. His gamble paid off during an impressive debut campaign with Catanzaro, where he flourished in the second half of the season. The midfielder played a pivotal role in driving the Calabrian outfit to the promotion play-offs, attracting attention from multiple Serie A clubs in the process.
Fiorentina, Sassuolo under Alberto Aquilani and Torino managed by Ignazio Abate have all registered interest in recent days. However, Como appear determined to win the race for the youngster even if Nico Paz remains at the club beyond the current window.
Financial structure and Milan’s stake
The financial structure of any potential deal offers significant insight into the negotiations. Liberali’s contract contains a release clause set at approximately €6 million. Crucially, AC Milan negotiated a 50 per cent sell-on clause when sanctioning his departure to Catanzaro, meaning the Rossoneri would receive half of any transfer fee realised this summer.
Como’s pursuit reflects their ambitious recruitment strategy following promotion to Serie A. The club are actively strengthening their squad ahead of the new campaign, viewing Liberali as a viable target to bolster their midfield options regardless of other incoming business.
The situation remains fluid as the transfer window progresses, with Catanzaro holding a firm negotiating position thanks to the release clause mechanism. Como will need to meet or negotiate this clause to secure the player’s services ahead of their rivals.