EA7 Olimpia Milano dominates the 2026 transfer market: here’s what’s brewing
EA7 Olimpia Milano has kicked off an aggressive roster overhaul for the 2026 season, locking in two key signings by mid-July. The Italian champions are doubling down on European experience to fortify their lineup ahead of the next EuroLeague campaign.
Which moves are already official
On July 13, EA7 Olimpia Milano announced the signing of Shavon Shields, a 29-year-old wing coming off a 12.3-point EuroLeague season with Baskonia. His addition bolsters the small-forward spot, already anchored by Giampaolo Ricci, who averaged 10.1 points and 4.2 rebounds in the 2024-25 Italian league. The day before, the club brought in Kevin Punter, a 28-year-old American point guard with four seasons in Turkey split between Fenerbahçe and Anadolu Efes. Punter, a career 38% three-point shooter in EuroLeague, is expected to run the offense alongside Michele Vitali, who posted 11.2 points and 3.8 assists per game last season.
Why these signings matter for the Rossoneri
Shields brings physicality and defensive versatility—exactly what a roster chasing both the Italian league and EuroLeague needs. Punter offers a pure playmaking option after Malik Newman left Milan in June following two seasons averaging 8.7 points. The Punter-Vitali backcourt could be lethal in transition. Ricci remains a reliable scoring threat, shooting 42% from three last season.
What’s next on the radar
Rumors persist about a potential return for Nicolò Melli, though the Italian big man just signed a two-year deal with Olimpia Milano in 2024. Another name in play is Will Clyburn, the American wing who averaged 14.5 points in EuroLeague last season with Anadolu Efes. Clyburn previously wore the Rossoneri colors between 2018 and 2020 and could rejoin if Milan opts for a more physical profile. On the exit side, 22-year-old Lithuanian point guard Paulius Valieris is close to a loan move within the Italian league to gain experience.
The 2026 calendar looms: what to watch
With the Italian Supercup set for September, EA7 Olimpia Milano can’t afford missteps. The current roster, already strong, may see further tweaks in the coming weeks. Coach Ettore Messina has emphasized balance, especially after the 2025 EuroLeague quarterfinal exit against Real Madrid. The 89-78 Game 3 loss highlighted the need for a more impactful playmaker—one Punter could fill. Meanwhile, the club continues exploring potential swaps, including talks with Baskonia, where Shields left a positive mark.