Como's Champions League push drives €6m swoop for Milan prodigy

Como, fresh off Champions League qualification, need a creative midfielder to bolster their squad, and 19‑year‑old Mattia Liberali fits the profile. The Italy‑born product of AC Milan’s youth academy offers the technical edge the club seeks for European competition. Limited playing time at Catanzaro prompted the midfielder’s sale a year ago for practically nothing, with an agreement that the club would retain 50 per cent of any future transfer fee. The move gave Catanzaro a low‑cost option while preserving potential upside. Liberali’s contract includes a €6 million release clause, meaning AC Milan could have re‑signed him for just €3 million, half of the stipulated amount. Como, however, activated the clause first and convinced the teenager that the step aligns with his ambitions.

Como's €6m gamble on Liberali after deal leaves Milan fuming

Milan’s delegation pursued Liberali aggressively, even arranging a personal call from patron Gerry Cardinale. The presence of Zlatan Ibrahimovic in Milan’s decision‑making process remained a sticking point for the youngster, as it had been last season. Multiple outlets – Sky Sport Italia, Fabrizio Romano, dello Sport and others – corroborate the transfer, confirming that the deal will be finalised within the next 48 hours. The reports indicate that Como’s offer was decisive in securing the player’s commitment. Liberali showcased his potential on the international stage, converting a penalty in Italy’s UEFA European Under‑19 Championship 2026 match against Serbia on 29 June in Caernarfon, Wales (photo by Jess Hornby). He also featured in a pre‑season friendly between AC Milan and Real Madrid at Soldier Field on 31 July 2024, captured by Justin Casterline. With the move imminent, Como must integrate Liberali quickly to benefit from his midfield versatility ahead of the Champions League campaign. Milan, still owed half of the €6 million fee, may need to negotiate the financial terms while Ibrahimovic’s influence persists.