Como Hope in Kean Talks But Stalling with Milan for Ricci Amid Champions League Push

FolioPitch.com – 28 August 2026 | Como hope in Kean talks but stalling with Milan for Ricci remains the defining narrative of the Lariani’s transfer window, as sporting director Carlalberto Ludi delivered a mixed update on Friday. Speaking to Sky Sport Italia after the club’s historic first Champions League draw, Ludi confirmed advanced negotiations with Fiorentina for striker Moise Kean, while pouring cold water over reports of a near-completed deal for AC Milan midfielder Samuele Ricci.

Como’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. Three years after competing in Serie B, the club now prepares to face Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, and Manchester United in Europe’s elite competition. The financial rewards of that achievement have allowed the club to invest heavily in Cesc Fabregas’s squad, and the pursuit of Kean and Ricci represents a clear statement of intent.

Kean Talks Advance

Reports from Italy suggest Como have agreed a deal to sign Fiorentina striker Moise Kean on an initial €10m loan, with an obligation to buy for €25m at the end of the season, plus €5m in add-ons. However, Ludi was cautious, indicating that negotiations are still ongoing over performance-related bonuses and that no permission has yet been granted for the player to travel for a medical.

“I was going to disappoint you by saying that I wasn’t here to talk about the transfer market, but I can’t do that,” Ludi joked. “With regards to Kean, the two clubs are in contact, we have not finalised anything yet, but this is a strong player and we hope that he can join our squad.”

The Kean deal, if completed, would add significant firepower to a Como attack that has relied heavily on the creativity of Fabregas’s system. The former Juventus and Everton forward has struggled for consistency at Fiorentina, but his physical presence and movement make him an ideal fit for Serie A’s tactical demands. For Como, securing his signature would be a major coup as they prepare for a gruelling Champions League campaign.

Ricci Deal Stalls

While the Kean talks appear to be progressing, the same cannot be said for the situation involving Samuele Ricci. Reports had suggested that Como and AC Milan had reached an agreement for the midfielder on a €2m loan with an option to buy for €22m plus €1m in bonuses. But Ludi’s comments suggest those reports were premature.

“We admire Ricci, but as of today there is nothing concrete,” he said. “If we were to go for a midfielder, it would be the very last move of the transfer market, but we’re not sure yet if we want to do that, so we’re stalling.”

The athletic and technically gifted Ricci has been a key part of Milan’s midfield since his move from Torino, but he has faced increased competition for starting places this season. A loan move could provide him with more regular minutes, but Como’s hesitation suggests they are weighing their options carefully. The club’s director made it clear that any midfielder signing would only be considered if it truly improves the squad, not merely for the sake of making a move.

This careful approach underscores the reality behind the phrase “Como hope in Kean talks but stalling with Milan for Ricci.” While the club is eager to strengthen, they are not willing to rush decisions that could upset the delicate balance of the squad or the wage structure. Ludi’s comments reflect a sporting director who understands the importance of patience in the transfer market, even when fans are clamouring for new arrivals.

Champions League Ambitions

Como’s participation in the Champions League has transformed their summer plans. The club has already secured several new signings, and more are expected before the window closes. The prospect of facing Europe’s elite requires depth and quality, and the ownership group has shown a willingness to back Fabregas with substantial funds.

However, Ludi’s cautious tone suggests that the club is also mindful of Financial Fair Play regulations and the need to build sustainably. The Kean deal, structured as a loan with an obligation to buy, spreads the cost over time, while the Ricci option would allow them to evaluate the player before committing to a permanent transfer.

The club’s supporters are understandably excited about the upcoming season. Watching Como take to the pitch at the Camp Nou or Old Trafford is a dream come true for a fanbase that has experienced the lows of Serie B and the highs of promotion. But with that excitement comes expectation, and the club’s hierarchy is determined to ensure that the squad is ready.

What Next?

The next few days will be crucial in determining whether Como can finalise the Kean deal and whether they will revisit the Ricci option. Ludi admitted that the midfielder situation could change before the deadline, but he also made it clear that it was not a priority at the moment.

“We’re not sure yet if we want to do that,” he repeated, signalling that the club’s focus remains on other areas of the pitch. This is a strategic choice by Como, who are prioritising attacking reinforcements over midfield depth. The addition of Kean would give Fabregas a proven goalscorer at the highest level, something that could be vital in a Champions League group stage that features some of the best defences in the world.

For now, Como fans will be hoping that the club can wrap up the Kean transfer without further complications. The phrase “Como hope in Kean talks but stalling with Milan for Ricci” perfectly captures the current state of affairs: progress on one front, hesitation on another. It’s a delicate dance that could define the club’s entire season.

As the transfer window enters its final weeks, the only certainty is that Como are no longer the small club from the lakes. They are a side on the rise, and the moves they make in the coming days will send a clear message about how far they intend to go. Whether Ricci eventually joins, or whether Kean becomes the headline signing, one thing is for sure: Como’s ambition is no longer in question.