Inter Milan and Italy international Alessandro Bastoni has become the subject of an investigation linked to an alleged escort ring being examined by prosecutors in Milan.
Authorities are looking into claims connected to an incident that reportedly dates back several years.
The investigation is being handled by the Milan Public Prosecutor’s Office as part of a broader inquiry into alleged prostitution-related activities involving multiple individuals.
Allegation Centers on 2020 Encounter
According to investigators, Bastoni is accused of paying for sexual services involving a girl who was reportedly 17 years old at the time of the alleged incident in June 2020.
Under Italian law, paying a minor for sex could amount to child prostitution, making the allegation a serious criminal matter.
The Inter defender has reportedly been ordered to appear before prosecutors on Friday as the investigation continues.
Footballer Firmly Rejects the Claims
Bastoni has denied any wrongdoing through his legal representative, Salvatore Scuto, who said the defender has been deeply affected by the accusations.
The lawyer insisted his client never paid for sexual services and categorically rejected suggestions that any encounter involved a minor.
According to Scuto, Bastoni maintains his innocence and intends to cooperate with the legal process.
Report Says Alleged Victim Denies Sexual Relationship
Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport reported that the young woman at the center of the investigation has already been questioned by authorities.
The report states that she acknowledged spending time at Bastoni’s residence but denied that any sexual relationship took place between them, a claim that could play a significant role as investigators assess the available evidence.
Difficult Period Continues for Italian International
The legal scrutiny comes after a challenging spell on and off the pitch for the 27-year-old defender.
Earlier this year, Bastoni was sent off during Italy’s decisive World Cup qualifying play-off against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Italy ultimately lost the match in a penalty shootout, extending the nation’s absence from the FIFA World Cup to a third consecutive tournament.
Social Media Backlash Added to Recent Struggles
Away from international football, Bastoni and his family have also endured online abuse following a controversial incident during Inter Milan’s clash with Juventus on February 14.
The defender faced criticism after appearing to exaggerate contact in an attempt to have an opposing player dismissed, an episode that sparked heated debate among fans and led to widespread abuse on social media.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
At this stage, prosecutors are continuing to gather evidence, and no verdict has been reached.
Bastoni has not been convicted of any offence and continues to deny all allegations through his legal team as the investigation proceeds.
