Liverpool's target, Riccardo Calafiori, was visibly moved to tears on the pitch after Italy secured their spot in the last 16 of the Euros with a last-minute draw against Croatia.
Calafiori has attracted attention from Anfield following an impressive season with Bologna, prompting the Reds to inquire about a potential summer transfer.
The 22-year-old has carried his club performance into the Euros, standing out as an innovative left-sided centre-back, a position he has claimed as his own after transitioning from left-back.
Despite a loss to Spain, Calafiori's performances against Albania and Spain caught the eye, leading to his third start of the tournament against Croatia.
The match was hyped as a critical showdown, with Croatia needing a victory to secure their last 16 spot and Italy requiring a result to ensure progression.
The game in Leipzig turned out to be a tepid encounter, with both teams lacking dynamism and precision in the final third, making it difficult to dismantle each other's defenses.
Croatia managed to take the lead early in the second half through Luka Modric, who compensated for a missed penalty by scoring past Gianluigi Donnarumma shortly after.
It seemed to be a momentous night for Modric and Croatia's veterans, with the 38-year-old's goal looking to be enough to advance to the last 16.
However, in the final moments, Calafiori emerged from defense, executing a one-two with Davide Frattesi, advancing with the ball, and then setting up Mattia Zaccagni.
Zaccagni's goal clinched a crucial draw, ensuring Italy finished second in Group B and prepared for a last-16 match against Switzerland.
Although Italy might have advanced as one of the best third-placed teams, the importance of the outcome resonated with the squad.
At the final whistle, Calafiori was overcome with emotion, lying on the pitch, his reputation magnified by a pivotal moment for the reigning champions.
