Alessandro Bastoni, the Inter Milan and Italy international defender, is reportedly under investigation by Italian police as part of a probe into child prostitution. The 27-year-old centre-back, widely regarded as one of the world's top defenders and a target for Real Madrid, has been summoned for questioning by the Milan Public Prosecutor's Office on Friday, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Allegations and Denials
Bastoni is accused of paying for sex with a 17-year-old girl in June 2020, which would constitute child prostitution under Italian law as the girl was a minor at the time. He vehemently denies the allegations. His lawyer, Salvatore Scuto, stated: “My client is very shaken. I can rule out that he ever engaged in paid sexual relations, let alone with minors.”
The girl in question has reportedly been questioned and admitted to staying at Bastoni's house but denied having sexual relations with him.
Broader Investigation into Escort Ring
The investigation is part of a larger inquiry into an alleged escort ring operated by the Ma.De events company based in Cinisello Balsamo. The company is suspected of hosting all-inclusive parties and events that regularly entertained footballers and other VIPs. Around 70 names have been linked to these exclusive events, including players from AC Milan, Inter Milan, and other Serie A clubs, as well as athletes from other sports. It remains unclear whether attendees were involved in soliciting prostitution or committing any crimes.
Bastoni is the first footballer to be investigated in this probe, which continues to examine the network.
Difficult Period for Bastoni
The investigation caps a challenging few months for Bastoni. He was sent off during Italy's crucial World Cup qualifying playoff against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which Italy lost on penalties, missing out on a third consecutive World Cup. Additionally, in February, Bastoni and his family faced online abuse after he appeared to dive in an Inter match against Juventus, leading to an opposition player being sent off.
