Today, a meeting between Milan and Mattia Liberali took place.
With Gerry Cardinale in attendance, the player and his representatives listened to the Rossoneri's proposal. The initial feeling is positive, but no definitive or final agreement has been reached. Later this afternoon, Liberali is also scheduled to meet with Como, who have worked intensively over the past few days to sign the 2007-born talent. After talks with Cesc Fàbregas' club - where, like Rúben Amorim, the Spanish coach is a great admirer of Liberali – the situation should become much clearer.
The story involving Liberali, Milan and Como has been developing for around a year.
According to Milannews.it, the 2007-born attacking midfielder, who spent his entire youth career in Milan's academy, decided not to renew his contract with the Rossoneri at the end of last season and requested a transfer after a difficult and confusing campaign in which several young players, including Francesco Camarda, were given little opportunity with the first team.
Liberali joined Catanzaro in Serie B on a free transfer, with Milan retaining a 50% sell-on clause. In Calabria, under the guidance of Alberto Aquilani, the attacking midfielder enjoyed an impressive season, attracting interest from several clubs, including Sassuolo and Como, managed by Cesc Fàbregas. His release clause is considered favourable at €6 million, with half of that fee going to Milan.
Until a few days ago, his move to Como appeared all but certain. However, Milan then stepped in decisively. First came Rúben Amorim, with the Rossoneri coach reportedly calling the player repeatedly in an effort to convince him to return to Milan. Amorim sees Liberali as an ideal fit for one of the two attacking midfield roles behind the striker. The prospect of working with the Portuguese coach is naturally appealing to the player, although Fàbregas has also had a strong influence on him.
Liberali and his representatives had expected direct contact from Milan yesterday, and that finally arrived this morning. Gerry Cardinale personally took part in the meeting, stepping in – as he did in the pursuit of Gonçalo Ramos – to try to fulfil his coach's wishes and repair the relationship after the disagreements that emerged last year and ultimately led to the player's departure.
This afternoon, Liberali will meet with Como, who have continued to push strongly for his signature and have made a significant effort to convince him. A final decision is then expected to follow.
A return home to Milan, or Champions League football under Fàbregas? Liberali's choice is expected very soon, writes Milan News.
