Mino Raiola, one of the most prominent agents in the world of football, has died at the age of 54.
Raiola was the agent of Everton striker Moise Kean, currently on loan at Juventus, and had worked with Mario Balotelli, whose transfer to Liverpool he brokered in 2014. Paul Pogba and Zlatan Ibrahimovic were also represented by him.
A statement from his family released today said: "In infinite sorrow, we share the passing of the most caring and amazing football agent that ever was.
"Mino fought until the end with the same strength he put on negotiation tables to defend our players. As usual, Mino made us proud and never realised it.
"Mino touched so many lives through his work and wrote a new chapter in the history of modern football. His presence will forever be missed.
"Mino's mission of making football a better place for players will continue with the same passion."
Raiola was born in Italy in 1967 before spending much of his youth in the Netherlands. He made his name working on transfers for players such as Dennis Bergkamp and Pavel Nedved, establishing himself as one of football's most notable intermediaries.
Other high profile clients include Erling Haaland, Romelu Lukaku and Gianluigi Donnarumma.
It was recently reported in Germany that Raiola had been in intensive care for a lung condition not linked to COVID, before reports from Italy earlier this week suggested he was 'very very ill'.
