Mattia Liberali Snubs Milan for Como in €6 Million Transfer

FolioPitch.com – 01 July 2026 | In a dramatic turn of events, young midfielder Mattia Liberali has opted to join Como instead of returning to AC Milan, a move that has stunned the Rossoneri hierarchy. According to multiple reports, including Sky Sport Italia and Fabrizio Romano, Report Liberali snubbed Milan in favour of Como in 6m move, with the player rejecting personal calls from Milan owner Gerry Cardinale and the presence of Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the decision-making process.

Liberali, who turned 19 in April, is a product of Milan’s youth academy. He was sold to Catanzaro a year ago for a nominal fee, with the understanding that Milan would receive 50% of any future transfer fee. The teenager’s limited playing time at Catanzaro prompted a release clause in his contract worth €6 million, which Como triggered after securing Champions League qualification. Milan, who would have only needed to pay €3 million due to the sell-on clause, tried desperately to convince Liberali to return to San Siro, but the player remained steadfast in his decision.

The saga culminated in a personal call from Cardinale, but even that could not sway Liberali. Insiders suggest that the involvement of Zlatan Ibrahimovic in Milan’s management was a significant factor in Liberali’s reluctance to return. The teenager reportedly felt that Ibrahimovic’s presence created an uncomfortable environment, a sentiment that has not changed since his departure last year.

Report Liberali snubbed Milan in favour of Como in 6m move now appears finalized, with the transfer expected to be completed within the next 48 hours. Como, who have been ambitious under new ownership, see Liberali as a key addition to their squad as they prepare for their Champions League campaign. The move represents a significant coup for the club, which has been actively building a competitive team.

Milan, meanwhile, are left to rue what might have been. Despite the potential bargain price, they were unable to convince their former academy star to return. The Rossoneri’s loss is Como’s gain, as Liberali brings creativity and energy to the midfield. His ability to play as an attacking midfielder or winger gives Como tactical flexibility.

For Liberali, the decision is a bold statement about his career aspirations. He chose a club that showed faith in him and offered a clear path to regular playing time in European competition. The teenager is expected to sign a multi-year contract with Como, committing his future to the club.

The football world will watch closely as Liberali embarks on this new chapter. Report Liberali snubbed Milan in favour of Como in 6m move has become one of the most talked-about transfers of the summer, highlighting the changing dynamics in Italian football where ambitious clubs like Como can challenge traditional powers for top talent.

In conclusion, Mattia Liberali’s rejection of Milan in favor of Como underscores the growing influence of player agency in modern football. The young star’s choice emphasizes the importance of fit and opportunity over club prestige. Como will hope that Liberali’s arrival propels them to new heights in Serie A and the Champions League, while Milan must look to other targets to bolster their midfield.