Paolo Zampolli, a special envoy for global partnerships, told FT he had suggested the idea to both the president and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
“I’m an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a US-hosted tournament,” he said.
“With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion.”
Italy is currently not participating in the tournament after failing to make it through the playoffs.
Zampolli argued the switch would repair relations with Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
Iran qualified for the World Cup last year after winning in the AFC qualifiers.
So far, Infantino has spoken in favour of Iran participating in the tournament.
“Iran has to come, they represent their people, they have qualified, the players want to play,” he said last month.
“Sports should be outside of politics.”
“The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup, but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety,” he said last month.
Despite Zampolli’s pleas, the US president does not have the power to decide what teams participate in the World Cup.
Milan-born Zampolli was appointed special envoy by his long-time friend Trump.
Two years later, he introduced her to Trump.
Zampolli has faced allegations that he instigated the arrest and deportation of his ex.
Amanda Ungaro had lived in the US for decades after being flown in from Brazil on Epstein’s plane.
After a long custody battle over their 16-year-old son, Ungaro was arrested by ICE agents, and after several months in custody, was deported back to Brazil.
The New York Times reported Zampolli had asked for Ungaro to be placed in ICE detention.
