KEIR RADNEDGE REPORTS: London will stage an intercontinental challenge between the champions of Europe and South America – Italy and Argentina – on June 1.

European and South American federations UEFA and CONMEBOL have confirmed the details of a contest which echoes the original World Club Cup back in 1960.

London has been named as the venue though this may not be Wembley.

The agreement arose out of the renewal of a memorandum of understanding extending until June 30, 2028.

The MoU includes provisions relating to the opening of a shared UEFA/CONMEBOL office in London and the potential organisation of a variety of other events. The office due to be opened formally early next year.

UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin said: “There is a a long tradition of cooperation between UEFA and CONMEBOL, as could be witnessed over the years with competitions such as the Artemio Franchi Trophy and the Intercontinental Cup, and it is with great pride that we are relaunching such a prestigious national team trophy to the delight of football lovers across the globe.

“We are very much looking forward to explore new opportunities together and we are eagerly awaiting the Finalissima in London in June 2022.”

CONMEBOL president Alejandro Domínguez said: “We are immensely pleased with the fruits we are reaping together with UEFA.”

One of the issues on which UEFA and CONMEBOL have lined up together is in opposing the FIFA proposal for a World Cup every two years.

#####