What happened: Fabrizio Romano reports that Sassuolo midfielder Ismael Kone has a €35 million release clause in his contract that is valid until the end of July. Several Italian clubs are interested, with AC Milan director Tare confirming the Rossoneri's attention, and there is also reported interest from the UK. Talks are expected to progress before the World Cup.

Why it matters: A fixed release clause turns Kone into one of the most accessible midfield targets of the summer window, and the July expiry forces suitors to act early. AC Milan's public confirmation via Tare signals a real, not speculative, market — and competing English interest could push the price toward the clause ceiling. The Canadian international's profile also carries World Cup currency heading into 2026.

What to watch: Watch for the first formal bid or clause activation before the World Cup window, and whether Sassuolo attempts to renegotiate the clause out of the contract. AC Milan's next move under Tare is the key tell.