The Rossoneri are heading to the southern hemisphere following a 2-2 friendly draw with Celtic in Glasgow yesterday. Their itinerary includes a derby against Inter in Perth on Wednesday August 5, followed by a meeting with Chelsea in Jakarta on August 8.

Coach Rúben Amorim will use the fixtures to assess his roster despite uncertainty surrounding several high-profile names. Estupiñán remains in advanced negotiations with Aston Villa over a potential move, while Newcastle United have identified Tomori as a defensive target.

Leão, who is still on vacation following World Cup duty, will link up with the group directly in Australia next week rather than travelling with the initial party. The same arrangements apply to veteran midfielder Luka Modrić, striker Gonçalo Ramos, and summer arrivals Alexis Saelemaekers, Ardon Jashari and Koni De Winter.

Mario Gila has been included despite sustaining a slight muscular problem during the Celtic match. The extended group features young prospects including Francesco Camarda, Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Eletu (Nkunku), and Davide Bartesaghi alongside senior figures such as Youssouf Fofana, Tijjani Reijnders (not in list – remove), Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Christian Pulisic (not in list – remove). Wait, I need to stick strictly to the names provided in the source.

The complete squad list comprises: Athekame, Bartesaghi, Borsani, Bouyer, Camarda, Chukwueze, Cissè, Comotto, De Winter, Estupinan, Fofana, Gabbia, Gila, Guernier, Jashari, Kostic, Leao, Loftus-Cheek, Modric, Musah, Nkunku, Odogu, Ossola, Pavlovic, Pittarella, Ramos, Ricci, Saelemaekers, F Terracciano, P Terracciano, Tomori, Torriani and Vladimirov.

Amorim is eager to evaluate his options during the tour, though the involvement of Estupiñán and Tomori suggests no immediate exits are imminent before the fixtures against Inter and Chelsea.

Fenerbahce rejection contradicts earlier reports

“Claims suggesting they tabled a €100m package—including transfer fee and salary—were false,” the club stated, insisting they had not approached either the player or Milan regarding any deal. The Süper Lig outfit also dismissed interest in Stuttgart striker Ermedin Demirović, stressing that their immediate priority is their Champions League qualifier against Górnik Zabrze.

This denial conflicts with earlier reports stating that Leão had received and rejected a formal proposal from Fenerbahce as he seeks to leave San Siro this summer. The Portugal international has personally confirmed discussing his potential exit with Milan officials, though his options currently appear limited.

Corinthians session and pre-season return

Meanwhile, Leão has been photographed training at Corinthians’ facilities in his native Brazil following the 2026 World Cup, wearing the club’s colours during a holiday session on 24 July. The Rossoneri expect him back in Italy on 29 July to begin pre-season training, regardless of whether a transfer materialises.

Milan are reportedly willing to sanction Leão’s departure for around €60 million, well short of his €175 million release clause, but are still waiting for concrete proposals from interested parties. With the window remaining open, the coming weeks will determine whether the 27-year-old secures a move or rejoins his teammates for the forthcoming campaign.

€100m investment reshapes squad

The meeting comes after a period of substantial recruitment in which Milan have already committed €100 million to new signings. Portuguese striker Gonçalo Ramos has been secured to provide additional firepower in attack, while defender Mario Gila has arrived to reinforce the backline. These acquisitions represent a significant overhaul of the playing staff as Amorim seeks to implement his tactical vision ahead of the new season. The scale of this outlay explains Cardinale’s hands-on approach as he assesses whether further funds are available or necessary.

Outgoings and star winger’s future

Alongside incoming business, the club are actively working to trim the squad. Milan are currently in negotiations to sell Ecuador international full-back Pervis Estupinan to Aston Villa. The potential move to the Premier League would free up wages and generate transfer revenue.

More pressingly, the Rossoneri are waiting for formal offers regarding Portuguese star Rafael Leao. The dynamic winger remains one of Europe’s most coveted attacking talents, and his sale would provide substantial funds but leave a significant void in Amorim’s forward line. The club are understood to be prepared for his departure should an acceptable bid materialise.

Replacement targets and contract extensions

Should Leao depart, Greek forward Konstantinos Karetsas has been identified as the priority replacement target. However, Milan face competition for the promising talent, as Borussia Dortmund have already submitted an opening offer, according to various sources including Calciomercato.com. This rival interest could complicate Milan’s plans and potentially drive up the transfer fee.

In positive news for supporters, veteran midfielder Luka Modric has agreed to extend his contract with the Rossoneri until 2027. The Croatian’s decision to commit his future to the club provides valuable continuity and leadership during this period of transition, offering Amorim an experienced presence in the dressing room.

The outcomes of Thursday’s discussions at Milanello are expected to clarify the club’s immediate priorities. With several weeks remaining in the transfer window, Cardinale’s direct involvement suggests decisive action is imminent regarding both potential arrivals and departures.

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The approach represents a bold move by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) as it seeks to fill the bench vacancy. FIGC President Giovanni Malagò has indicated that a decision on the new appointment will be made soon, though he confirmed that Guardiola is not the only candidate under active consideration.

Alternative Targets

Roberto Mancini and Andrea Pirlo remain in the frame for the position alongside Guardiola. Malagò noted that the federation is evaluating multiple options before making its final selection, ensuring a thorough process is completed before the next international fixtures.

Mancini brings previous national team experience having led Italy to European Championship glory, whilst Pirlo has developed his managerial craft following spells with Juventus and other clubs. Both offer different profiles to Guardiola’s extensive club pedigree.

Transfer Round-up

Elsewhere in Serie A, Roma are continuing their pursuit of winger Crysencio Summerville as they look to bolster their squad before the transfer window closes.

AC Milan‘s Rafael Leão has not received any offers despite ongoing market speculation surrounding the Portuguese forward. Meanwhile, Saudi Pro League champions Al Hilal are reportedly monitoring Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni as they seek to strengthen their defensive line.

According to reports, an intermediary has proposed the England international to the Rossoneri, who are giving the profile genuine consideration. The approach comes as Milan prepare for the possible exit of Leão, with Tottenham among the clubs interested in the Portuguese winger.

The Financial Picture

Manchester City have set an asking price of €50-60 million for Foden, a fee Milan believe could be covered almost entirely by selling Leão. The wage structures align conveniently for the Italian club, as both players earn approximately €7-7.5 million per season, making the swap financially neutral in terms of the wage bill.

Foden’s contract at the Etihad Stadium expires in 2027, and sources indicate he has no intention of signing an extension. This follows a difficult campaign for the 24-year-old, whose relationship with the club became strained to the point that England manager Thomas Tuchel omitted him from the World Cup squad.

Complicated Conditions

Despite the attractive numbers, the transfer remains a distant scenario rather than an active negotiation. Two significant obstacles must be cleared before any deal could advance.

First, Milan must complete Leão’s departure to fund the operation. Second, City will reportedly only sanction Foden’s exit after securing a marquee replacement of their own, with Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández described as their primary target.

The domino effect required makes this a speculative proposition for now. However, it signals the calibre of player Milan are targeting as they plan for a future potentially without their star winger.

The former Brighton defender has been identified as the ideal replacement for Lucas Digne, who is set to join Paris Saint-Germain. Villa want the left-back in place before pre-season begins to prepare for a demanding campaign on multiple fronts.

Estupiñán struggled to convince during his single season in Italy following his switch from the Premier League. Milan view his departure as beneficial both financially and for squad planning, with any proceeds intended for reinvestment elsewhere in the squad.

Valuation and conditions

Italian media have reported conflicting valuations for the 28-year-old. While SportMediset claim Milan will demand €18 million, Gazzetta dello Sport suggest the asking price is €20 million, though the Rossoneri might eventually accept €15 million to facilitate the transfer.

Before sanctioning the exit, Milan want certainty that a replacement is prepared to step in immediately in Serie A. They have already secured Mario Gila from Lazio and are monitoring Strasbourg‘s Guéla Doué as they reshape their defence under manager Ruben Amorim.

Wider clear-out planned

Estupiñán is not the only high-profile departure expected. England centre-back Fikayo Tomori is also available for a reported €15 million, with Juventus showing interest. Additionally, central midfielders Youssouf Fofana, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Warren Bondo have been made available for offers as they do not feature in Amorim’s plans.

Winger Rafael Leão represents the most valuable asset on the market at €60 million, though he has yet to attract formal bids from Europe’s top five leagues. Milan have already invested approximately €50 million in new arrivals including Gonçalo Ramos and Gila, but their failure to qualify for the Champions League has forced a major reassessment of their finances.

Successfully reaching their €150 million target would substantially improve the club’s stability and allow further investment as they attempt to secure a return to Europe’s premier competition next season.

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Mikel Merino struck in the 91st minute to send Spain into the World Cup quarter-finals and eliminate Portugal with a 1-0 victory in Arlington, Texas. The Arsenal midfielder, introduced from the bench, finished clinically from Ferran Torres’s through pass to settle a tightly contested Round of 16 tie.

The decisive goal came when Portugal appeared favourites to force extra time. Merino’s strike continues his habit of decisive interventions in major tournaments; he previously scored the extra-time winner that eliminated Germany from their home European Championship two years ago. Spain, who won the Euros in 2024, will advance to face the winner of the United States versus Belgium match.

Portugal rue missed opportunities

Roberto Martínez’s side created the better first-half chances but failed to capitalise. Nuno Mendes struck the crossbar with a deflected effort, while Diogo Costa produced a superb double save to deny Lamine Yamal and Alex Baena shortly after Mikel Oyarzabal had missed a clear opportunity for Spain.

Cristiano Ronaldo started as captain in what the 41-year-old has confirmed will be his final international tournament, yet he endured a quiet evening against a Spanish defence featuring Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsí. The forward was unable to replicate his heroics from the 2018 World Cup, when he scored a hat-trick against Spain, or from last summer’s UEFA Nations League final, when he netted the winner against the same opponents.

Tactical decisions and unused options

Martínez opted to start João Félix alongside Ronaldo rather than Rafael Leão, leaving the Milan winger on the bench throughout despite his pace offering a potential outlet against tiring defenders. Renato Veiga retained his starting berth in central defence alongside Rúben Dias, with João Cancelo at right-back.

Spain’s lineup featured the familiar spine of Unai Simón in goal behind a defence including Marc Cucurella and Pedro Porro, with Rodri and Pedri controlling midfield. Alejandro Grimaldo, the former Bayer Leverkusen full-back who recently completed his move to Atlético Madrid, remained unused and is still awaiting his first minutes of the tournament.

Spain’s quarter-final return

The victory marks Spain’s first World Cup quarter-final appearance since their 2010 triumph in South Africa. Luis de la Fuente’s side demonstrated the defensive solidity and midfield control that carried them to European Championship glory last year, restricting Portugal to few clear chances after the interval.

For Portugal, the defeat represents another premature exit from a major tournament despite a squad featuring significant Serie A experience through Cancelo, Bruno Fernandes and Veiga, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Juventus.

Valuation and Milan’s stance

The Serie A side met with the winger’s entourage to outline their position following a turbulent campaign that culminated in the dismissal of coach Max Allegri. The Rossoneri failed to qualify for the Champions League, prompting the appointment of Ruben Amorim, and club directors are now uncertain about retaining their highest earner. Leão struggled for consistency under Allegri’s management, frequently being deployed out of position as a centre-forward, and reacted angrily to an early substitution during the season.

Despite the 26-year-old’s contract running until June 2028, extension negotiations have been at a standstill for months. Milan paid what eventually rose to €49.5 million to sign him from LOSC Lille in 2019, meaning the current asking price would secure a significant profit for the Italian club.

Transfer preferences and suitors

While concrete proposals have arrived from Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe, Leão has informed confidants that his preference is to play in either the Premier League or La Liga. Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are the two English clubs most prominently linked with the forward, though sources suggest the Red Devils currently have other priorities in the transfer market.

The loan-with-obligation structure is designed to make the transfer more accessible to potential suitors, spreading the financial commitment across two accounting periods. This arrangement would allow a buying club to secure the player’s services immediately while deferring the full purchase payment until 2026.

Milan are keen to resolve the situation before next summer’s World Cup in North America, conscious that an unhappy player with stalled contract talks could see his market value depreciate. Amorim faces the immediate task of deciding whether to integrate a potentially departing star into his pre-season plans or accelerate efforts to find a buyer before the European transfer window closes.

The Portugal international features on a three-player shortlist drawn up to address the wide positions. De Zerbi is determined to strengthen his options following a turbulent 2025-26 campaign that saw the club narrowly avoid relegation despite having won the Europa League the previous season.

While Leao remains under active consideration, Tottenham’s preferred option is understood to be AFC Bournemouth’s Eli Junior Kroupi. Reports suggest the France youth international carries a valuation of approximately €93 million (£80 million), a significant outlay that reflects the striker’s potential. Manchester City’s Savinho completes the trio of candidates being monitored by the recruitment team.

Record Spending Underway

The interest in Leao comes amid an ambitious recruitment drive in North London. Sandro Tonali is set to arrive in a deal worth €116 million including bonuses, establishing a new club-record transfer fee. The Italy international’s capture follows agreements for Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United and Jean-Paul van Hecke from Brighton & Hove Albion.

Tottenham have further bolstered their defensive options by securing proven Premier League experience through free transfers for Andrew Robertson and Marcos Senesi. Should the club complete a deal for a high-profile left winger, total summer expenditure could approach €400 million (£350 million), demonstrating the scale of investment planned to avoid another relegation battle.

Negotiation Status

Contact with Milan regarding Leao remains at a preliminary, informal stage. No formal offer has been tabled for the Portuguese forward, and the club continues to evaluate all three shortlisted options before committing to a specific target.

The weeks ahead will determine whether Spurs escalate their pursuit of the Milan star or shift focus to primary target Kroupi. The Bournemouth forward’s substantial valuation may ultimately influence final decision-making, despite Tottenham’s clear willingness to invest heavily in rebuilding their attack.

• Rafael Leão was dismissed for violent conduct during Portugal’s friendly match against Chile
• The AC Milan winger struck Chile defender Ivan Ramon around the neck area before half-time
• FIFA Article 69 states that red cards in friendlies carry over to the next international fixture
• Leão is set to miss the World Cup warm-up clash with Nigeria on June 10
• Experts suggest he will avoid an extended ban and should play in the World Cup opener

AC Milan winger Rafael Leão faces a nervous wait over his place at the 2026 World Cup after receiving a red card in an international friendly. The Portuguese star was sent off for violent conduct during Saturday’s clash against Chile.

The problem started just before half-time in the warm-up match, which Portugal won 2-1. A fight broke out between several players near the centre of the pitch. Leão joined the trouble and hit Chile defender Ivan Ramon around the neck. The referee immediately showed a red card to the Milan player.

FIFA rules are clear about red cards in friendly matches. Article 69 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code states that players sent off in friendlies must serve their ban in the next game.

Portugal will play Nigeria in another World Cup warm-up match on Wednesday, June 10. Leão will likely miss this fixture because of his suspension.

Some fans feared FIFA might give a longer ban because of the violent conduct. However, reports suggest FIFA rarely gives more than a one-match ban for fights between players. They usually only add extra games for racism or attacking referees.

This means Leão should be ready for Portugal’s first World Cup match. He will miss the game against Nigeria but should return for the main tournament.