US envoy Paolo Zampolli to Donald Trump has asked Fifa to replace Iran with Italy in the upcoming World Cup which does not look like it will go ahead.
Iran's involvement in the summer tournament has been in question after the United States and Israel began air attacks on Iran in February and have now lasted for a number of months.
"I’m an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a US-hosted tournament," Mr Zampolli told the FT. "With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion."
The Italian national side missed out on the World Cup for the third time in succession after a 4-1 penalty shoot out defeat by Bosnia and Herzegovina in their qualifying playoff final.
The Athletic reported that FIFA declined to comment on Zampolli’s claim and the Italian Football Federation denied any knowledge of the proposal.
Now, the BBC report that there are no plans to replace Iran with Italy ahead of this summer’s competition and that FIFA has "sole discretion" on what happens if a team withdraws or is excluded from the competition.
The tournament, which begins on 11 June, is being hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico and Iran are set to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on 15th and 21st June, and Egypt in Seattle on 26th June.
Trump stated earlier this year that Iran were "welcome" but also said it was "inappropriate" for them to take part "for their life and safety" this summer as many doubt whether the country can compete over the coming months.