The family of super agent Mino Raiola have confirmed that he has died in hospital today at the age of 54.
The representative of stars such as Paul Pogba, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Erling Braut Haaland was admitted to hospital earlier this week with a mystery illness.
Reports in Italy on Thursday claimed that he had died but he took to Twitter to refute the rumours, even though he was in a critical condition at the time.
Now his family have confirmed that Raiola has lost his fight for life in a hospital, with a statement saying: "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.
"We thank everybody for the huge amount of support received during these difficult times and ask for respect and privacy of family and friends in this moment of grief.
"The Raiola Family."
Paris Saint-Germain were among the first to react to the tragic news, writing on Twitter: "Mino Raiola, charismatic sports agent, passed away today following an illness. The club, through its President, sends its condolences to his family and loved ones."
Known for his fierce negotiating style, Raiola boasted some of the biggest names in world football on his client list, also representing Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Marco Verratti, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Matthijs de Ligt and Mario Balotelli.
Neil Wilkes
