Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni investigated for alleged child prostitution

Italian footballer Alessandro Bastoni, a defender for Inter Milan, is reportedly under investigation by the Milan Public Prosecutor's Office for alleged child prostitution. Local media in Italy reported the development on Tuesday.

According to the newspaper La Repubblica and other Italian outlets, Bastoni's name appeared in a broader investigation targeting a suspected escort agency based in Cinisello Balsamo, near Milan. This agency allegedly organized nightlife events for VIP clients, primarily footballers.

The investigation focuses on a supposed encounter between Bastoni and a young woman who was 17 years old at the time. However, the case remains unclear, as the woman has testified that no relationship existed between them. Bastoni has received a formal notification from the prosecutor's office, informing him of his status as an investigated person. This ensures his right to defense during the ongoing inquiries.

In the same operation, Italian financial police have questioned three other footballers – Daniel Maldini, Riccardo Calafiori, and Kevin Bonifazi – as witnesses. As of now, none of them are under investigation. The investigation aims to dismantle a network allegedly organizing exclusive parties for celebrities in Milan's trendy venues, including dinners, nightclubs, and hotel accommodations. Four individuals have been detained since April as part of this operation.