Italy's Esposito draws Toni praise ahead of Belgium clash
The short version
- Italy face Belgium on Friday, with Pio Esposito tipped to start centrally.
- Luca Toni says Esposito is better than he was at 21 but must improve his finishing.
- Fiorentina have chosen Neto to replace Kamil Grabara, per Corriere dello Sport.
- Milan are working on a Pulisic extension through 2031.
- Italy's U-20 women play Spain in a World Cup semi-final at 15:00 CET.
Italian newspapers say Inter striker Pio Esposito is set to lead the line for Italy against Belgium on Friday, with Luca Toni rating him ahead of himself at the same age.
Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso-era preparations continue for Friday's match against Belgium, with reports in La Gazzetta dello Sport indicating that Inter striker Pio Esposito is moving toward a central role in the attack.
Former Italy forward Luca Toni offered high praise for the 21-year-old in Tuttosport, saying Esposito is already better than he was at the same age, while noting the young forward learned from Inter teammates Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram and needs only to become more clinical in front of goal.
Juventus continue to shape their squad operations under Damien Comolli-era executive Francesco Gianelli, with Tuttosport reporting the club is reviewing its scouting approach toward fewer algorithms and more direct contacts. Fiorentina director Daniele Prade has chosen Neto to replace Kamil Grabara in goal, per Corriere dello Sport.
Elsewhere, Milan are working on a contract extension for Christian Pulisic that would run until 2031, with the proposal reportedly backed by manager Rubei Amorim after the American's goal against Lecce. Roma's Paulo Dybala is said to be in top physical condition under a new fitness coach and has taken on a leadership role.
Italy's Under-20 women's team faces Spain in a World Cup semi-final, scheduled for 15:00 CET on Wednesday.
