Como are poised to sign midfielder Mattia Liberali from Catanzaro, with a deal progressing rapidly after a late push from the Serie A side. According to reports in Italy, an agreement in principle has been reached with the player, following a persuasive conversation with manager Cesc Fabregas who outlined his vision for Liberali’s role within the team.
Milan had also expressed strong interest in Liberali, with newly appointed coach Ruben Amorim personally contacting the player to discuss a potential move. Amorim reportedly detailed a tactical plan for Liberali as a key attacking midfielder behind Gonçalo Ramos, and appeared to have made significant headway in convincing the 20-year-old. However, Milan’s delay in formally entering negotiations with both Liberali’s representatives and Catanzaro allowed Como to capitalize.
Sassuolo, where Liberali previously played under Alberto Aquilani at Catanzaro, also registered their interest, but Como and Milan were consistently positioned as frontrunners. A key factor in Como’s pursuit is the guarantee of a place in the Champions League next season, a qualification achieved at the expense of both Milan and Juventus on the final day of the season. Liberali is expected to be included in Como’s Champions League squad, fulfilling the criteria for players developed within Italian youth systems.
Catanzaro and Como are scheduled to meet tomorrow to finalize the financial details of the transfer, which will trigger Liberali’s release clause of €6 million. Of that sum, €3 million will be paid to Milan, who retain a 50% sell-on clause from a previous deal. Milan had the option to sign Liberali for €3 million last year, but their hesitation in engaging with Alessandro Lucci, Liberali’s agent, proved decisive in opening the door for Como. Liberali made his Serie A debut for Catanzaro against Genoa on December 14, 2024, after being given a chance by then-manager Paulo Fonseca.
