Italiano meets Bologna for contract extension amid strong Milan rumours | OneFootball

Vincenzo Italiano has emerged as the leading candidate for the Milan job, but Bologna will offer their coach a contract extension today.

Italiano’s agent, Francesco Caliandro, will meet Bologna directors today to hear their offer for a contract extension.

Italian sports papers report that the Rossoblu are eager to extend the coach’s contract until 2028. Italiano replaced Thiago Motta last summer, signing an agreement to 2026.

Why Milan will drop Sarri for Italiano

BOLOGNA, ITALY – MAY 04: Vincenzo Italiano, Head Coach of Bologna, gestures prior to the Serie A match between Bologna and Juventus at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on May 04, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

It’s a meeting that directly concerns Milan as well. The Rossoneri are on the verge of hiring Igli Tare as their new sporting director, which means Maurizio Sarri will likely have fewer chances to sign for the Diavoli due to past tension between him and Tare at Lazio.

On the other hand, Italiano has emerged as one of Tare’s primary candidates for the job at San Siro.

During his first season in Bologna, Italiano won a legendary Coppa Italia, the club’s first major trophy in 51 years, beating the Rossoneri in the Final last week.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Roma have sounded out Italiano as well.

The 47-year-old will listen to Bologna’s contract extension offer today, but according to the report, he expects a pay rise and a guarantee that departing players will be replaced adequately.