Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil edge past Japan as transfer chess plays out in Turin

Brazil secured their place in the round of 16 with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Japan, but Carlo Ancelotti’s side needed every minute to progress. A first-half strike from Sano had Japan in front, before Casemiro equalised midway through the second period. Vinicius Jr. then saw a late effort hit the post, before the Arsenal forward avoided extra-time to send Brazil through. The Seleção’s nervy performance in Houston contrasted with the chaos in Paraguay, where Germany were eliminated on penalties by Paraguay after a 5-4 shootout defeat. The result marked a sharp contrast to Brazil’s qualification, with Ancelotti insisting room for improvement remains despite the win. In Turin, Juventus’ transfer activity intensified as talks with Genoa over attacker Ekhator gathered pace. Juventus CEO Carnevali confirmed the Bianconeri were exploring multiple options, including Kolo Muani, while dismissing speculation around Dusan Vlahovic. ‘Vlahovic? We’re not thinking about him,’ Carnevali stated, adding that the club had ‘clear ideas’ but needed ‘time and patience.’ The hunt for reinforcements extended beyond forwards, with Juventus also monitoring defenders Divu and Vicario. Ekhator emerged as a priority, with reports suggesting a potential €15 million deal could be finalised within days. Carnevali’s comments followed speculation linking the attacker to a swap involving Cambiaso and Frattesi with Inter.

Brazil edge past Japan, Germany stunned by Paraguay

Meanwhile, Manchester City’s pursuit of Manuel Ugarte took a twist as reports indicated a €100 million bid was ready, with Tonali also on the club’s radar. Pep Maresca’s interest in the midfielder added another layer to the Premier League’s summer chessboard. At Milan, Rafael Leão’s future remained a focal point as the club prepared a new contract for Paulo Dybala. Club CEO Giorgio Carnevali also dismissed transfer talk around Romelu Lukaku, stating the striker ‘is not finished’ and would discuss his future with the coach. ‘I’ll speak to the coach in the future,’ Lukaku said. Antonio Conte’s potential move to Saudi Arabia resurfaced with reports of a monster offer worth €20 million per season. The former Inter manager remains a target for Al-Ittihad, while his future as Italy’s potential national team coach added further intrigue.

Penalty drama reshapes World Cup path for Paraguay and Germany

In Rome, Roma’s sporting director Daniele Carnevali confirmed the club was targeting two signings, with Dybala and Jack Greenwood among the names under consideration. The club’s approach contrasted with Juventus’ more cautious stance, as they sought to balance ambition with financial prudence. The contrasting fortunes of Brazil and Germany dominated headlines, while Juventus’ transfer activity and Manchester City’s pursuit of midfielders framed the tactical landscape ahead of the next round.