The debt finance group at Linklaters Studio Legale Associato is equipped to advise on a range of transactions, from high-yield, unitranche and special situation transactions to asset, export, and real estate finance. Borrowers hailing from various sectors like pharmaceuticals, tech, industrials and construction routinely turn to the group led by Francesco Faldi, a practitioner whose remit ranges from bond issuances to acquisitions of receivable portfolios and single names, turnaround procedures and more. Also on the bench are the experienced Ettore Consalvi, energy and infrastructure financing specialist Tessa Lee, and Dario Longo, who focuses on structured lending, NPLs, and other regulated asset matters. Alessandra Ortelli and Marco Carrieri are further notable names. Alessandro Nolet relocated to Milan from the Hong Kong office in May 2025. Diego Esposito left in June 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The team combines strong technical skills, particularly in handling international and cross-border situations, with a high level of commitment to ensuring the successful completion of transactions. Partner involvement in projects is above average.'
- ‘Francesco Faldi and Ettore Consalvi have a long-standing collaboration, which results in a unique positioning in the Italian market.'
- ‘I've worked primarily with Ettore Consalvi of this firm. What sets him apart is his expertise and technical training in often very complex financial and legal matters. He's always managed to provide answers to both us and the banks we serve.’
- ‘Technically skilled, business-oriented, responsive, flexible.’
- ‘Ettore Consalvi proved to be a great team leader in guiding the whole team in accomplishing a material refinancing transaction in a very short time at good contractual terms and conditions.'
- ‘Among the individuals I have worked with, I would highlight Ettore Consalvi, who stands out for being highly involved in the deal, with strong command of both details and process — a real differentiator compared to many other firms where partners tend to be less operational.'
- ‘The individuals stand out for their genuine care and proactivity in identifying potential issues at an early stage. They add value by simplifying complex concepts, offering personal opinions and practical suggestions that guide decision-making and differentiate them from competitors.’
- ‘The Linklaters team that handled the case was always very present, assisting the company in all aspects, from strategic contractual matters to operational ones. Furthermore, what sets Linklaters apart and what we appreciated, in addition to the high level of technical expertise, is the attention the entire team paid to the case, from the partner to all the collaborators.’
Work highlights
Advised Nexi S.p.A. on the refinancing of certain parts of its existing indebtedness via a syndicated financing, comprising two term facilities (€1,9bn) and a credit revolving facility (€1bn) made available by a pool of lenders selected by Mediobanca.
Advised IGS S.p.A. in connection with a refinancing transaction of approximately EUR 800 million aimed at refinancing any outstanding amounts under the existing loan for the construction and operation of the underground gas storage facility in Cornegliano Laudense, and financing new capex/investments related to such project and/or ancillary thereto.
Advised GVS S.p.A. in negotiations with Mediobanca and with the other lenders of a EUR 230,000,000 facility agreement entered into in June 2022.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Francesco Faldi
Other key lawyers
Ettore Consalvi; Tessa Lee; Dario Longo; Alessandra Ortelli; Marco Carrieri; Alessandro Nolet; Filippo Azzano; Marilisa Ciotta; Maria Chiara De Biasio